Woolworths staff offered training by City and Islington College

A London college is offering hundreds of Woolworths employees access to training following the closing of the last remaining stores on Tuesday.

City and Islington College sent a rapid response team to several stores across London to advise on a free two-week outplacement course for former employees. It has also set up a helpline for staff to receive support.

Teresa Esan, the college’s director of employability and employer engagement, said many of the retailer’s former employees would be ready for work soon.

“For those ready to go back into employment immediately, we are able to provide short employability skills training linked directly to the job vacancies we match them with,” Esan said.

“We have links with local brokerage organisations so we are aware of vacancies that are available in retail, hospitality and general administration,” she added.

The course offers advice on getting back to work, including job hunting, CV writing, and interview techniques.

Two-thirds of HR directors believe providing support for staff who are made redundant improves retention rates.