Walsall Works is an initiative funded by Walsall Council to support local people to find jobs, apprenticeships and access training, while also supporting local businesses that are looking to expand and invest in their future workforce. This service is available to all residents across the borough regardless of their age or personal circumstances.
The EXPO has been running for 11 years. The Walsall Works EXPO is now a recognised brand for customers and businesses alike. In the last year, the UK labour market has faced significant challenges with the reduction in the number of posted vacancies. In 2025 Walsall Works supported 1530 residents, 151 businesses with 347 people gaining employment and 408 into education and training, Young people continue to face a tougher job market with a million out of work nationally.
Locally the last recorded figures showed 9.2% of young people in Walsall were claiming benefits The Government are introducing Youth Guarantees: Commitments to ensure every young person has access to education, apprenticeships or employment opportunities to prevent long-term joblessness. Tackling youth unemployment is also a key priority of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) mayoral agenda, particularly through work placements. The target is still in progress and as of February 2026 — with more than 16,000 opportunities pledged toward the overall goal of 20,000.
Walsall Works, as part of Youth Trailblazer, is also offering paid work placements for businesses to take on 18- to 21-year-olds.
