The SSI Task Force has launched a new support package designed to offer extra help to former SSI employees, their spouses and partners who are looking for work. It is also available to SSI supply chain workers.
Employers taking on workers affected by the closure of SSI can now benefit from a two-year wage subsidy of £15,000 (for those aged 45 and over) or £11,000 (for those under 45) through the Jobs and Skills Fund.
The new and enhanced support package offers extra health and wellbeing support; specialist help with marketing themselves to employers and interview preparation; funding for in-work training; focused job matching and direct approaches to employers; traineeships and internships with local employers; and post job start assistance/career enhancement guidance.
Amanda Skelton, chair of the SSI Task Force and chief executive of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “It’s almost eight months on from the SSI closure and we have looked at what help and support we can give to people still looking to find new jobs or training opportunities. The more personalised support package will help to make sure people receive the right kind of support suitable to their own individual needs. More than half of those seeking work are aged over 45, and that’s why we’ve introduced an extra incentive to employers to recruit people from that age group.”
For further information, log on to www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk
