Distribution on the case

The new learning centre at the Boots distribution site in Greenwich had a VIP launch when the minister for skills David Lammy MP performed the official opening ceremony.

The new centre has already helped staff gain certificates in numeracy and literacy and will offer career advice before the site closes in September next year.

“Learning is vital for our members future, whether it be to brush up basic skills, enhance their career opportunities or in this case to up-skill in times of redundancy,” said learning rep Sharon Pearcey.

General secretary John Hannett is backing the project. “The success of the Learning Centre at Boots is down to Usdaw and the company working together. Our learning reps do a great job and are vital in making sure our members get the right advice and learning support.”

Meanwhile a special launch day held at the Next Distribution site at Elmsall Drive, West Yorkshire in June will help deliver new skills and training for more than 600 staff.

“The launch was a great success with a steady stream of people visiting throughout the day,” said Graham Baines, one of six union learning reps at the site.

“We have a wide range of nationalities working in the warehouse so it was no surprise that (ESOL) English for Speakers of Other Languages was very popular closely followed by computer courses.

“The feedback from staff has been very positive with many saying that it will help boost morale and build a community spirit in the warehouse. Once this pilot has been up and running successfully the plan is to roll it out to other Next sites in the future.”

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Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Aug-2008 23:26:50 EST