Date: 1 May 2008

 

Unemployed people living in some of Middlesbrough’s most deprived neighbourhoods can now benefit from a new retail training programme, launched today.

 

Using its award-winning “Virtual Shop” in Middlesbrough, employment specialist Working Links is now delivering a flexible programme on behalf of Middlesbrough Borough Council, designed to help those who want a career in retail. Those taking part will have the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications, as well as receiving support to move into work.

 

Participants will be able to choose from a menu of training, including modules on electronic point of sale training, customer care, first aid, food hygiene and health and safety.

 

Samantha Simpson, from Working Links, said:

“Retail training is often only available through lengthy courses or work-based learning, but these are simply not options for some people. The idea behind our Virtual Shop project is that it offers unemployed people in Middlesbrough the opportunity to achieve retail experience in a realistic environment and move into work within short space of time.

 

“And because people taking part in the programme can also gain relevant qualifications, it boosts their chances of getting a long-term job in the retail industry.”

 

The Virtual Shop, which won special recognition in last year’s European Retail Solutions Awards, uses the latest in technology. It means that people taking part in the programme can gain hands-on experience of all aspects of till service, such as paying by debit or credit card, as well as the sale of restricted items and how to deal with hostile customers.

 

For more information about the Virtual Shop retail training programme, call Working Links on 01642 236 042.