Support for Woolworths staff

06 January 2009

The Social Security Minister has expressed his sympathy for the islanders affected by the closure of Woolworths stores across the UK and Channel Islands.

Deputy Ian Gorst says staff from his department have been working closely, behind the scenes, with colleagues from Economic Development and the Jersey Advisory and Conciliation Service to support the staff affected.

“I am sad to see such an important member of Jersey’s local retail community leave. We have every sympathy with the staff whose jobs have been lost, and we have been working hard to support and advise them on their options. Social Security staff have been providing information on income support and explaining how the department’s services – including targeted training and Careers Jersey - can help them find alternative employment.

“I would like to thank other businesses which have made contact with staff at Woolworth's highlighting employment opportunities in their organisations. We will continue to work with our colleagues from other departments to do all we can to help people through this difficult time and to enable them to find other positions.”