At Cotton Court Business Centre, we’ve been proud to host a growing series of employment-focused events in partnership with the Growth Company’s Restart team, bringing together employers, training providers and local support organisations under one roof.
Following the success of our first event, the second brought a slightly different focus, placing greater emphasis on skills, training and the wider support people need to move into work and stay there.
A Collaborative Approach That Works
The most recent event, Support 2 Succeed, welcomed a wide range of organisations offering practical, on-the-ground support to individuals at different stages of their employment journey.
From training providers and apprenticeship schemes to wellbeing support and community services, the day was designed to connect people with the tools, guidance and confidence needed to take that next step.
This approach reflects that employment isn’t just about finding a job, it’s about removing barriers, building confidence and making sure people are supported long-term.
Strong Turnout and Positive Feedback
The feedback from both attendees and organisations involved has been incredibly positive.
Participants valued the chance to have meaningful conversations, ask questions and access support in one place, while organisations were able to engage directly with individuals who are actively looking to progress.
Events like this create a more joined-up experience, where people aren’t passed from service to service, but instead can access everything they need in one environment.
The Power of Partnership
A huge part of what makes these events work is collaboration.
By bringing together a mix of organisations, from skills providers and employment services to community support teams, we’re able to create something that genuinely supports people in a practical and accessible way.
With so many organisations delivering great initiatives locally, the focus was on bringing everything together and helping the right connections happen.
Creating the Right Environment
Hosting these events at Cotton Court allows for a welcoming, accessible setting right in Preston city centre, with strong transport links and a layout that supports a steady flow of attendees throughout the day.
But more importantly, it’s about the atmosphere, something the Restart team help shape through their proactive, approachable and people-focused approach, which really comes through on the day for both exhibitors and participants.
Looking Ahead
With strong engagement across both events so far, it’s clear there’s real value in creating spaces where employment, skills and support come together.
We’re continuing to build on this, working closely with partners to ensure future events remain relevant, practical and impactful for the people attending.
If you deliver training, provide support services, or are recruiting in the Preston area this year, and would like to be involved in future events, we’d love to hear from you.
