POSITIVE support is being offered to the people directly affected by the closure of Broad Oak Toiletries in Tiverton.

Mid Devon District Council has organised an event in Tiverton Town Hall for tomorrow, Thursday February 18,  between 2-5pm.

This event will enable any former employees of the company to make direct face-to-face contact with a wide number of local and regional support agencies who will be available to give direct help and advice, support and guidance on such areas as skills re-training, alternative employment and self-employment, CV writing and general careers advice.

Former employees will also be able to gain very useful advice on housing and housing benefit, tax and credit matters and assistance with other benefits.

It is hoped that a number of local firms/employment providers will be attending the event with the objective of promoting both their existing and potential employment opportunities direct to the workforce.

Mid Devon District Council will also be announcing the opening of a new temporary ‘hub’ at Unit 2 Market Walk, Tiverton, providing a drop-in support service to anyone in the District who is affected by these redundancies.

Chris Shears, the council’s economic development Officer, said: “Following the news of Broad Oak’s closure we want to help those affected as much as we can.

"We do hope that people who have lost their jobs will come along to the event on Thursday and make use of the opportunity to receive useful advice and learn of jobs that are available in the district.

"Any companies that are looking to recruit in the near future are welcome to attend and should contact the Economic Development Team at Phoenix House on 01884 244646”.

Neil Parish, MP for Tiverton, said: “I would like to express my sympathy to everyone who has lost their job as a result of Broad Oak Toiletries Ltd. closing.

"Mid Devon District Council is displaying community spirit at its best by organising a Careers Fair for all of those who have been affected by the closure.”