Somerset businesses faced with making redundancies due to the coronavirus pandemic are being encouraged to make the most of the support on offer through the Step Up Somerset initiative.
The Step Up Somerset website is a one-stop-shop for people, employers and businesses looking for support and information about employment skills, careers and apprenticeships.
Step Up Somerset delivers help in various ways, from assembling a taskforce to help any local company making significant redundancies, to providing employers with guidance about redundancy support for their workforce, as well as offering information about staff development and work placements.
When Step Up Somerset is made aware that a business or organisation is making redundancies, a taskforce is created to co-ordinate a support package response.
This team will include representatives from Somerset Council Council’s Employment and Skills Team, the district councils, Jobs Centre Plus, Citizens Advice, the National Careers Service as well as several other relevant partners.
The taskforce will then be able to offer a huge range of support and guidance to the affected business and its workforce by helping to analyse what support measures can be put in place, such as grants and business loans, and giving advice on various aspects of the redundancy process.
The Step Up Somerset website also offers an array of useful information for any business looking for more general guidance about development and can provide a useful platform for promoting recruitment and development events.
Individuals looking for work, re-training support when facing redundancy will also be able to find help via Step Up Somerset.
The site has a Wellbeing section with access to mental health resources to help anyone who is struggling to find employment or their next step in education and training.
For more information visit www.stepupsomerset.org.uk
A single phone number is available for anyone in Somerset who needs Coronavirus-related support from their councils. The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline number, 0300 790 6275, is open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm, offering a range of support – from help accessing food or medicines, to emotional and financial support, and employment, skills and business advice.