Support, jobs and health checks under one roof at The Junction

Antrim Jobs and Benefits Office Employer Adviser, Natasha Lamont, The Junction Retail & Leisure Park Director, Chris Flynn, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick and Business Development Project Officer, Jessica Smyth.

For anyone in Antrim considering a fresh start — whether that means improving wellbeing, building confidence or stepping into new employment — a free support event later this month aims to make that next step easier.

The Wellbeing and Employability Support Event will take place at The Junction Leisure and Retail Park on Saturday 28 February from 12 noon to 3pm, offering access to a wide range of completely free advice and practical guidance.

Designed as a one-stop support hub, the event will bring together local organisations, employers and council services to connect residents directly with the help available in their area.

Free health checks, financial guidance and job advice

Local support organisations including Adapt NI, Skills Connect and the Council’s leisure team will be on hand to provide advice on health and wellbeing matters. Attendees will be able to access free health checks as well as financial guidance.

For those exploring new career opportunities, several employers and recruitment organisations will also be present, including Starbucks, McDonald’s, First Choice, Staffline Recruitment and Riada Resourcing, offering employability advice and information about local job opportunities.

The initiative is intended to remove barriers by bringing support, information and employers together in one accessible setting.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said:

“This event is a great opportunity for local people to access free wellbeing advice and employability support in one place. By bringing a range of services together, we are helping to remove barriers and make it easier for people to get the support they need.

“I would encourage anyone who feels they could benefit to come along and find out what help is available.”

Inclusive and accessible support

Accessibility has also been factored into the event. A BSL interpreter will be available throughout the afternoon. Attendees requesting an ISL interpreter are asked to contact Antrim and Newtownabbey Council in advance.

The pop-up event is supported by the Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership and the Department for Communities.

Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.

Residents seeking further information can visit www.thejunctionshopping.com or email skills@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.