DURHAM EMPLOYMENT CONNECTIONS (DEC) ARE MAKING JOB FAIRS … FAIRER!
Getting back into work isn’t only about having the right experience on paper.

For many people, the biggest hurdle is the moment it becomes real: applying for the job, walking into an interview and, often, all while having to manage anxiety, and stay focused long enough for your ability to shine through.

That’s why Durham Employment Connections (DEC)  is building something a bit different for its Spring Job Fair on 30 April 2026.
It’s a local event where the employers attending are actively recruiting, and, in many cases, interviewing candidates on the day!
It’s designed to remove the practical and emotional barriers that can stop good candidates from getting a fair shot. Because when more people can take that step into employment, it strengthens families, boosts local confidence, and supports the wider Durham economy too.

From “work-ready” to work-active

DEC’s aim is simple: to present REAL opportunities to REAL people looking for work.
However, if you’re at home thinking, “I’m not capable of this,” or “Talking to people? No chance,” this event has been designed with you in mind.
After great results at last year’s event, DEC welcomes back Solution Focused Therapist Darren Finley, who will use his expertise in this field to support those who usually struggle in such situations.

It’s about supporting the mental move from being technically “ready” to feeling able to engage, speak, and be seen.
Within 20 minutes of focused rewiring, attendees will gain the confidence to perform in the room the way they can perform in real life, regardless of anxiety, overwhelm, stress, confidence knocks, or how their brain is wired. (You’ll find Darren in the XXX room.)

Removing barriers, step by step

This isn’t just a room full of stands and a takeaway flyer. DEC is putting support in place at the points where people most often get stuck:
Getting there: Free bus tickets and transport support may be available (ask your local employment support advisor).
Getting through the door: If the entrance feels like a wall, there will be support on hand to help you take that first step inside.
Staying in the room: Calm, in-the-moment “soft reset” support will be available during the day for anyone feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
Standing out: The goal is to bridge the gap between “overwhelmed” and “hired” … so candidates can show their strengths, not just their nerves.

The Quiet Hour (1:30 pm – 2:30 pm)

Busy rooms can be overwhelming, especially for anyone who experiences sensory overload, anxiety spikes, or difficulty processing lots of noise and movement.
To make the fair genuinely accessible, the final hour will be a designated Quiet Hour, with:
• no loud announcements
• fewer people in the space
• a calmer, low-stimulus environment
It’s a dedicated window for anyone who needs a quieter setting to speak with employers.
Event details

Durham Employment Connections (DEC) Spring Job Fair

Venue: Jeff Cooke Suite, Banks Homes Cricket Ground (Durham County Cricket)

Date: 30 April 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Quiet Hour: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
If you know someone who’s been avoiding job fairs because they feel overwhelmed, please share this with them. This one is being built as a high-support environment designed to help more people in our region take part and succeed.