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Help for would-be retail workers

A drop-in event next week will show why working in a shop could be just the job.

The event, aimed at people who aren’t working, will show how a job in a shop doesn’t have to mean serving behind a counter. Shops employ a range of other workers, such as drivers, office staff, cleaners, storeroom staff and security guards.

The event will offer:

tips on training, confidence-building and English and maths courses
a chance to chat to people from the retail industry about their jobs
advice on benefits, health, childcare or help looking after relatives

The event is from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 22 October at the Charles Dickens Centre, Lake Road (opposite Solent Divers). It has been organised by Jobcentre Plus and Portsmouth City Council, and is open to anyone 16 or over who is looking for work.

Leone Hill, marketing manager at Portsmouth Jobcentre Plus, said: “All shops, whether large or small, local or part of a national chain, need a variety of staff. As well as people dealing with customers – for example serving behind a counter – there are lots of jobs working behind the scenes, to keep goods flowing in and out, to look after the staff, to keep premises clean and tidy, and take care of security. And the trend for more home deliveries means opportunities for drivers.”

Linda Taylor, employment initiatives manager at the council, said: “We can also tell people who are receiving benefits about the extra help they can get even when working. And if they have responsibilities at home, then many companies have flexible shift patterns to fit in with family commitments, like weekend-only working. What’s more, lots of retail companies offer staff discounts.

“If you’re thinking of returning to work or going into work for the first time, come along and meet the experts.”

For more details, call the council’s Richard Rogers on 9284 1118 or Rob Neale on 9260 6603.

Date : 14 October 2008