MIA members facing difficult decisions involving redundancies or a reduction of their workforce should first seek advice on the support available from Government.
The Government has said that it will increase the number and value of business support schemes to help in the case of small and large-scale redundancies. It appears delivery of these schemes is the responsibility of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), working in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and the Learning Skills Council.
Already, for example, South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) has rolled out it’s version - “Continuing Employment Support Service” (CESS) - where companies in the SEEDA region, seeking redundancy advice and support, should contact Janine Hobbs - CESS Project Manager on 07778 828704 or janinehobbs@seeda.co.uk.
Other RDA regions have similar schemes already in place, or are developing one currently, which deliver upon the Government’s intent. Companies wishing to make enquiries on such issues should do so with their respective Regional Development Agencies.
It is also possible to access information on the schemes through other Government agencies such as Job Centre Plus, the Learning & Skills Council and Train to Gain. Local Business Link offices will also be pleased to direct enquiries to the most appropriate support provider. To find your local RDA or Business Link office, please visit www.berr.gov.uk/regional/regional-development-agencies or www.businesslink.gov.uk.
