Firms and organisations across the area are supporting an event organised by Gloucester MP Richard Graham to tackle the biggest issue facing the area following the pandemic - jobs.

Mr Graham is hosting the Gloucestershire Jobs, Skills and Apprenticeships Lift Off at Kingsholm on Friday, September 11.

Among those sponsoring the event are Gloucestershire College, University of Gloucestershire, Western Power Distribution, EDF Energy, Jobcentre Plus, Gloucestershire County Council, GFirst LEP, Spirax Sarco and Glos Jobs.

Punchline-Gloucester.com is backing the event along with the county's other five MPs.

Apprenticeship minister Gillian Keegan will attend with employment minister Mims Davies holding a virtual meeting with employers.

Mr Graham said: "It is absolutely clear the major challenge for our country and county ahead is jobs - and how we respond in Gloucestershire is crucial, especially for our young.

"We've been here before, but the context is very different and the scale of the challenge almost certainly greater."

"It will be physical and digital and I hope anyone leaving school, college or university, wanting new skills or a new job or interested in tips on CVs or interviews, worried about opportunities (BAME, disabilities or any other minority) or just interested in Gloucestershire's opportunities, please save the date."

Gloucestershire College director of apprenticeships and employer training Julie Tegg said the college was delighted to be one of the event's lead sponsors.

She said: "We're proud to be working with employers across Gloucestershire and beyond to create apprenticeship and job opportunities.

"We are encouraging business to back local talent and get on board with the Government's plan for jobs.

"At Gloucestershire College, we are here to support the unemployed to upskill and secure employment."

She continued: "Whether you're unemployed or have recently been made redundant, our Jobseeker courses can give you the skills and confidence to get the job you want.

"As a provider of more than 50 different apprenticeships from Level 2 up to degree level, we have a wide range of programmes and connections with local employers to support those looking to become an apprentice.

"Apprenticeships are open to anyone of any age, so we'd encourage all those interested to get in touch.

"If you are looking to progress in your career or perhaps switch professions, we have a whole portfolio of flexible, part-time courses for adults and professionals, which can fit around your commitments and employment."

Punchline editor Mark Owen said: "The importance of protecting and creating jobs - and ensuring people have the right skills for the market place - cannot be overstated as we look towards driving any economic recovery.

"This is an issue which will involve all of us in the weeks, months and years ahead."