Staff skills boost

WORKERS at the giant national distribution complex in Shaw are undergoing training to equip them with new skills.

The initiative, involving Blue Arrow Managed Services, Shop Direct Group and MET Training, has improved qualifications of the Oldham workforce and given the businesses increased flexibility.

A total of 36 Blue Arrow Managed Services employees — all contracted to work at the Shaw National Distribution Centre — have gained national vocational qualifications at NVQ Level Two in warehousing and storage following the Government’s scheme to encourage more people to seek vocational training.

This is only the first step in a longer-term partnership designed to see Shop Direct Group’s own staff and Blue Arrow Managed Services employees complete the course throughout 2009.

Katherine Martin (20), from Shaw, was presented with the Most Improved Student award by Mike Smedley, representing MET Training.

Katherine, who has worked for Blue Arrow Managed Services at Linney Lane distribution centre for more than two years, said: “I am thrilled. I really enjoyed the course and I’m sure it will stand me in good stead for the future.”

Steve Jeremy, Blue Arrow Managed Services account director, said: “Businesses are looking for increased flexibility in order to respond quicker to workload fluctuations.

“As a recruitment supplier, we are spearheading this initiative to improve the skills of flexible workers in order to provide a highly productive, adaptable and trained workforce for our clients.

“The success of Blue Arrow Managed Services, just like any other company, depends on the quality of their employees.

“Helping our employees acquire the skills they need will enable them to do their jobs even better and increase each and every employee’s future career prospects.”

The NVQ2 training programme, which takes place in the workplace, includes contributing to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, keeping the workplace secure and working effectively.

There are also workshops in literacy and numeracy to support individual training needs.