Work Zone breakfast

Wednesday September 16, 2009

Retailers at Westfield are invited to a special business breakfast to find out more about the brand new Work Zone.

The breakfast will take place at the Work Zone on Tuesday September 29, from 8.30am to 10am.

The Work Zone can be found at the new £2 million Shepherds Bush Library at the Westfield shopping centre and can help businesses to fill vacancies and improve the skills of existing staff, as well as helping unemployed people find jobs.

Employers will be able to find out about the Work Zone, and how they can use the facility to:

  • fill vacancies and retain staff
  • advertise vacancies
  • screen applicants to meet their requirements
  • provide a pool of job ready candidates
  • hold meetings and training sessions, and take advantage of free interview rooms
  • get support to fill Christmas and seasonal vacancies
  • get information on how new employees can access initial paid childcare
  • provide statutory and essential training courses e.g. health and safety and food hygiene
  • access retail specific staff training, e.g. effective selling and merchandising

One of the many benefits to businesses is that the Work Zone can provide free interview rooms for businesses who are recruiting new staff but have limited space in their work place.

Cllr Paul Bristow, cabinet member for residents’ services, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the new library and Work Zone are now open and I urge both people looking for work and businesses looking to fill vacancies to make the most of this excellent service. Shepherds Bush Library is much more than a library and we are particularly keen to open the Work Zone during these tough economic times.”

If you are looking for work, the Work Zone can help you to:

  • get a job
  • complete application forms, write a CV and prepare for interviews
  • access pre-employment training and support
  • pay for initial childcare costs when starting work at Westfield London (borough residents only)
  • organise work placements and work trials
  • develop retail careers and retain employment by improving your qualifications
  • ease the transition into employment by providing debt support and benefit advice
  • access online support and job vacancies at www.workzoneonline.co.uk (opens new window)

The Work Zone is a collaborative project between the council, Ealing Hammersmith & West London College, Job Centre Plus, Westfield and Tendis. A recent addition to the Work Zone is 'guest' employer, Groundwork London, who can offer employment opportunities in horticulture, sport and leisure and maintenance.

For more information on the Work Zone, visit www.workzoneonline.co.uk (opens new window) or call 07722 673665.  Businesses do not need to reserve a place at the breakfast and can just drop in any time between 8.30 and 10am on the day.