| Usdaw recommends Woolworths workers to other retailers |
06 January 2009
As Woolworths stores shut up shop for the final time, shopworkers' union Usdaw is continuing to work to find new jobs for the thousands of staff made redundant.
The union is contacting the companies who buy the Woolworths stores, strongly recommending that they give priority to applications from newly redundant Woolworths staff when they start their recruitment processes.
John Gorle, Usdaw National Officer, said:
"A lot of our members have worked for Woolworths for many years. These people are experienced retail staff who have remained committed and loyal to their business through a very difficult time. I firmly believe these workers would be an asset to any retail business, which is why I am recommending them to other retailers.
"We will of course continue to make the same recommendations when we know which other companies are buying the former Woolworths stores.
The union is also working with other organisations to ensure the best chance of re-employment for its members.
John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, added:
"We will work with Job Centre Plus, to find new vacancies, and Next Steps, a Government organisation that gives advice on careers. The union will also be in contact with local colleges, which will be offering free Skills for Life training. We will be providing as much support as necessary and would recommend all Woolworths staff to use Job Centre Plus and Next Steps to find alternative employment.
"We value our members not only when they are in work, but when they have been put out of work. I would encourage any worker to join a union, as it is an insurance policy in what are increasingly difficult times."