There are redundancies currently being made by businesses in Berkshire as a result of COVID-19.  At the same time, gaps in the labour market are appearing in key sectors. The aim of the Berkshire Redundancy and Redeployment Service is to support employers needing to make redundancies to ensure a smooth transition for employees into new work and also support employers who are looking to recruit.

The Berkshire Redundancy and Redeployment Service for employers

This service will connect employers who have urgent vacancies with individuals across Berkshire who are available to start work – while also listening to employers who have to make redundancies to see if there are opportunities for their staff arising in the region.

Alison Webster, CEO of Thames Valley Berkshire LEP said,

“In response to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, we are working closely with our partners such as the National Careers Service and the Berkshire Business Growth Hub to support businesses and their employees. Together we are able to provide a valuable rapid response service which will match redundancy situations to redeployment where possible and create additional support for individuals through employment services where further employability or skills help is required.

“The Berkshire Growth Hub acts as the first point of contact for business support in the area by keeping businesses up to date with government advice and guidance, sources of support, online events, sector-specific advice and access to available finance. The Growth Hub can provide free one-to-one advice for businesses on how to survive and recover from the current challenges.”

The Berkshire Redundancy and Redeployment Service for individuals

Support will also be available to those who have lost their jobs or whose jobs has been affected during the crisis. The service offers free, impartial and professional advice to job seekers, including practical aspects such as CV writing and access to training. Head of Delivery in the South East, Maninder Hayre, said, “Fresh career opportunities may be thin on the ground today, but the National Careers Service can provide valuable advice that includes pivoting into a new role, identifying training courses and getting new qualifications, updating a CV, developing online interview skills and generally preparing for the next stage in your career. We are only a phone call or a few clicks away for people who need advice on careers, training, getting a new job or the labour market.”

“Right now, a lot of people need support making critical life decisions in their careers and that’s exactly where the National Careers Service can help a great many of them,” said Katharine Horler, CEO of Adviza, the organisation responsible for delivering National Careers Service in Berkshire. Anyone aged 13 or over can access the free advice service remotely. Individuals can seek support by calling 0800 100 900, while employers can get in touch at adviza.org.uk/services/national-careers-service/regional-redeployment-service/

ENDS

About Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership

Thames Valley Berkshire LEP is a company limited by guarantee; one of 38 LEPs in England competing for public funds to invest in initiatives that address barriers to economic growth. It is a strategic, business-led partnership between the private sector, local government, the community and education sectors, as well as the main business organisations. Its aim is to bring about the sustainable economic growth of Thames Valley Berkshire through the implementation of a Strategic Economic Plan and to sustain the area’s status as the most productive sub region in the UK. For more information visit thamesvalleyberkshire.co.uk

About Thames Valley Berkshire Business Growth Hub

The Berkshire Growth Hub provides impartial, fully funded support, advice and information for growing Berkshire businesses. It is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Oxford Innovation. It is being delivered by Oxford Innovation. For more information visit Berkshire Business Growth Hub

About the National Careers Service

The National Career Service is available for free, personalised and impartial careers advice for citizens who need help to find learning and work that’s right for them. To contact the service call the helpline on 0800 100 900, open 7 days a week from 8am until 10pm,  or visit https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk