Employability Week 2026

As part of North Ayrshire Council’s annual Employability Week, Working North Ayrshire has highlighted its strong impact across communities, helping hundreds of residents take positive steps towards employment, training, and volunteering opportunities.

The service hosted a wide range of events designed to connect people of all ages with life-changing opportunities. Now in its third year, the initiative continues to grow, highlighting the breadth of support available locally and the strength of partnership working across the region.

Throughout the week, community events provided accessible, face-to-face support, giving individuals the chance to explore job vacancies, career pathways, training options, and volunteering roles. A jobs fair in Irvine attracted almost 150 attendees, while a Modern Apprenticeship information session welcomed around 70 people, demonstrating strong demand for employability support and clear routes into work

The week also celebrated successful partnerships with local employers through initiatives such as the Personal Recruitment Incentive (PRI), which supports businesses to create job opportunities for young people. By combining employer engagement with tailored individual support, Working North Ayrshire continues to create sustainable pathways into employment.

At the heart of this success is the person-centred approach delivered by the Working North Ayrshire team and its partners, including CEIS Ayrshire. Together, they provide a wide range of support services, from CV writing and interview preparation to paid work experience and Modern Apprenticeships, ensuring individuals are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

A key highlight was the launch of the Equal Specialist Employability Support (SES) garden at Lochshore Park, which brought together over 100 visitors and showcased inclusive approaches to employment. This initiative reflects the service’s commitment to supporting individuals with long-term health conditions and disabilities by focusing on their strengths and connecting them with suitable employers.

Employability Week highlights how effective, locally delivered services can make a real difference. By bringing opportunities directly into communities and offering expert guidance, Working North Ayrshire is helping people overcome barriers, build confidence, and move forward into positive destinations.

Through its continued dedication and partnership approach, the service remains a vital force in strengthening North Ayrshire’s workforce and supporting individuals to realise their full potential.