Sheppey campus helps workers facing redundancy

Canterbury College at Sheppey has opened its doors to the hundreds of Thamesteel workers due to lose their jobs after the company went into administration.

Sheppey Head Philip Wicker met with representatives from workers’ union Communitas on Monday, 30 January, to find out how the College can help get back into employment and offered the College’s courses and facilities.

Communitas’ National Operations Manager Alan Sharp, Project Manager Tom Davis and Union Learner representative for Community Union Jake Underdown were invited to the Bridge Road campus by Mr Wicker, who explained courses can be tailored to workers’ needs.

Mr Wicker said: “We will do what we can to help those who have lost their jobs by making our facilities available to them. We are experienced at helping those who are out of work to find employment.”

Mr Underdown expressed gratitude at Canterbury College at Sheppey’s quick action. He said: “This has let the workers know that people are there for them. We’ll take the College’s offer with open arms.” Communitas is due to find out workers’ needs before meeting with Mr Wicker again on Thursday, 2 February.

Thamesteel is one of the Island’s biggest employers. It makes steel bars which reinforce cement used in the construction industry and is situated less than half a mile from Canterbury College at Sheppey.

For more information, visit www.canterburycollege.ac.uk/sheppey.