Response to Redundancy (R2R)
The aim of the Response to Redundancy (R2R) programme was to deliver a broad range of high quality services for people threatened with redundancy and establish sub-regional partnerships to offer a coordinated service to East of England residents and companies facing closure, re-structuring or downsizing.
Over the past two years Exemplas has delivered a successful Responding to Redundancies (R2R) programme on behalf of The East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and The European Social Fund (ESF). Although targeted at small and medium sized organizations (SME’s), it is a demand led project and responds to the needs of the economy of the region, and therefore has also helped a number of larger organizations.
There are now 6 sub-regional redundancy support groups across the East of England. Each group is made up of a mix of key individuals from both public and private sectors. These groups have been identified as the first point of contact for redundancy situations and will help develop a strategy of support to both organizations and individuals and coordinate the support available.
Key outcomes from the R2R project:-
Over 200 organisations assisted.
Over 3400 individuals benefitted from Advice and guidance sessions from Matrix accredited careers advisors.
Over 1000 individuals received outplacement workshops including compiling a CV, preparing for an interview, job search techniques and self employment awareness.
Over 1000 chose to increase their skills base by either upgrading their current skills or training for another career. The range of training is too varied to summarize but includes the achievement of obtaining National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ)’s and professional qualifications
From individuals who responded to the follow up questionnaire or “phone up” 70% stated that they had found an alternative form of employment. Of which over 50% had found full time employment. Another 5% had started their own business or become self employed.
Responding to Redundancies also made the shortlist for the regions Celebrate Awards. This was recognition of the efforts made in assisting people through a difficult period such as redundancy.