A potentially life-changing event for people seeking new challenges, skills and careers is coming to Alton.

New Directions is exactly what is says: a tailor-made event for people looking to make a change.

Firms, organisations and community groups keen to offer such opportunities have been urged to sign up and take part. 

They can exhibit for free at the HSDS Alton College campus event from 10am to 4pm on Friday, October 27.

New Directions is run by East Hampshire District Council in conjunction with the college, Alton Town Council and the office of Damian Hinds MP.

The event will include exhibitions, speeches and workshops to help East Hampshire residents with career opportunities, training, upskilling and volunteering. 

Councillor Rob Mocatta, EHDC portfolio holder for regeneration and prosperity, said: “The pandemic has made a lot of people re-evaluate their careers and their role in their communities. This event will give people the chance to see what opportunities are out there and to try something new.

"HSDC Alton College is a great venue and provides all our guests with the space and time to talk to organisations that interest them. As such I really hope that the businesses and volunteer groups around East Hampshire come along to meet that wider audience.” 

Damian Hinds, MP for East Hampshire, said: “The opportunity to work in the community you live in – either through paid employment or as a volunteer – makes for better, more cohesive communities.  It can also be hugely beneficial for work/life balance and can reduce our carbon footprints if we are able to travel fewer miles to get to work.  

“I’m delighted to see New Directions return for another year, and I hope that the employers and volunteering groups exhibiting gain as much from it as those attending as prospective employees and volunteers.” 

If your organisation would like to be an exhibitor at this event contact [email protected] to secure your free place.