Matalan launches pre-employment scheme

Retail chain Matalan has invited unemployed people in and around Crawley to complete a free pre-employment programme to fast track their way to secure an interview at the town’s new store.

The retailer, which has more than 200 stores across the UK, has committed 75 interview slots for unemployed people in the area who successfully complete the Skillsmart Retail Works pre-employment programme.

The Skillsmart Retail Works programme is run through the Central South East Skills Shop – part of the National Skills Academy for Retail’s network for retail skills shops.

The 30 hour course is offered to all those who want to gain employment in the retail sector.

They’re given all the skills needed to succeed in retail, including product knowledge, effective selling skills, customer service techniques and health and safety training.

Jane Rexworthy, head of the National Skills Academy for Retail, said: “This is a great opportunity for those who want to get into retail in the Crawley area, but perhaps lack previous experience. Retail Works is a fantastic programme which gets people back into work, and provides retailers, such as Matalan with employees that have the skills, confidence and knowledge to work in the retail sector.”

Skillsmart Retail is the Sector Skills Council for Retail. Its aim is to gain recognition of retail skills, whilst improving access to the skills system for those in the retail sector, including new recruits.

Some 20,000 people have attended the course since it was introduced in January 2009, of which 53% of Retail Works candidates found employment because of the knowledge learnt, according to an independent survey.

Kevin Hollingworth, talent and recruitment manager for Matalan, said: “We know that there are plenty of people who have the passion to work for a fashion retailer, good communications skills and the potential to offer excellent customer service, but have not worked in retail before.

“Through Retail Work s we can access these individuals and give them the opportunity to work in the retail sector. As employers we recruit people who are committed and have the basic knowledge that they need, right from the start.”

Mark Astley