SCARBOROUGH FIRMS URGED TO TAKE UP FREE RECRUITMENT SERVICE

Companies in Scarborough are now able to take advantage of a free scheme that will help them develop their business by tackling recruitment headaches head-on.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched Flexible New Deal, offering unprecedented levels of support to both those who have been out of work for 12 months or more – and organisations that might employ them.

Locally, employment specialist A4e has been contracted by the DWP to deliver the programme in conjunction with Jobcentre Plus offices in the region. A4e has offices throughout Yorkshire – including in Hull, Scarborough and York.

At a time when all businesses are reviewing costs, cost-conscious companies should not overlook the high-quality, pre-screened candidates that can be sourced through Jobcentre Plus and Flexible New Deal – its services are free to employers and involve minimal paperwork.

Steve Cooke A4e’s Scarborough Branch Manager, said: “The greatly-enhanced Flexible New Deal service really does mean now is the right time for companies with an eye to the future to get in touch – even if they’re not recruiting just now. We want to work with you, if you have job vacancies or opportunities for four-week work placements. These can be great opportunities to help people gain experience and for you to identify future potential.”

Companies can contact A4e or find out more about the benefits of recruiting through Flexible New Deal. To help businesses find out more, A4e has introduced a new website – www.FND4you.co.uk

“You’re probably missing a trick – and possibly the best employees – if you expect to be recruiting in the near future and are not thinking about Flexible New Deal,” said Mr Cooke.

“We want to start a dialogue with employers now, even if they don’t have current vacancies. Flexible New Deal is as much about meeting the needs of an employer as the client. The better we get to understand their requirements, the quicker we’ll be able to match them with highly-motivated, productive new employees when the time is right.”

Mr Cooke added: “The economic climate remains difficult. Those companies still able to take on new staff need to be confident they’re making the right choice.

“Under Flexible New Deal, we’ll only be putting forward candidates that we believe are ‘job ready’ and able to deliver to a company’s requirements. If they need extra support or training then that will be arranged beforehand or whilst they are with you, whatever suits you best.”

A4e’s contract with the DWP incentivises finding and preparing candidates for long-term, sustainable work. A4e will continue supporting them for up to 12 months after they start work. Flexible New Deal is free to both the company and jobseeker.

Mr Cooke said: “The Government has committed itself to Flexible New Deal for at least the next five years. It is meant to be a big step forward and we’re hoping employers will approach it with an open mind.”

Employers can request further information about Flexible New Deal and contact from an A4e specialist via the www.FND4you.co.uk website.