Retired or flexible local workers sought to plug workforce gaps

Friday 17 September 2021

A local recruitment firm is looking to match up islanders who are retired or work limited hours to roles in the challenged hospitality and retail sectors.

GR8’s new service aims to help businesses who need staff at short-notice and individuals who are prepared to work flexible hours or cannot work regular hours due to other commitments.

“Finding the right people to fill roles has been a problem for many businesses this year. Our clients are telling us that they have had to reduce their services just at the moment when things are returning to normal because they can’t get enough people,” explained Managing Director Lee Madden.

“We have noticed this particularly in hospitality where some venues have remained closed.

“This solution works by giving people who may have retired or have other pressures that prevent them from committing to 9 to 5, or even regular part time hours, the chance to earn some money while at the same time providing a flexible resource to many of the businesses struggling to get staff currently.

He added: “Going forward, we see this as a fantastic opportunity to use the years of knowledge and talent that people can bring to the workforce without tying them down to regular hours. They can earn at a time and pace that suits them. It will also help those who may have family commitments that prevent them signing up with an employer.”