Ex-Remploy workers have found fresh starts in new careers at a rate of three every working day over the past few weeks, as the Government’s £8m package of support for those who have left the factories takes effect, Minister for Disabled People Esther McVey announced today.
More than half (602) of those on the support programme are now in new jobs or training to start new opportunities, with the help of the 18-month package of tailored one-to-one support.
Nine former Remploy factories have also either been taken over, reopened, or are set to reopen as new businesses or social enterprises.
Minister for Disabled People, Esther McVey said:
“I know this is a difficult time for ex-Remploy workers – so I am pleased to see that the support we are offering is making a real difference to those who have left Remploy already, with many moving into new careers.
“I’d encourage any ex-Remploy worker who is still considering their future but hasn’t taken up our offer of support to do so, so they can get access to the one-to-one personalised support and personal budget.
“Disabled people should have exactly the same choices as everyone else in the world of work – from hairdressing to engineering and everything in between – and the support package is helping to make this happen.”
Chesterfield, Barrow, Birkenhead, Bolton, Bridgend, North London, Oldham, Wigan and Wrexham have been sold or will reopen as new businesses or social enterprises, many taking on original staff members.
Five former Aberdeen Remploy factory workers have also started up a co-operative business. Almost two thirds of Remploy’s Bridgend factory, which ceased production last week, also already have new jobs.
The factory closures follow the advice of a disability review which recommended the protected budget for disability employment should be used more effectively to get disabled people into mainstream jobs instead of subsidising loss-making factories.