The impact of coronavirus on ways of work, and on the economy, means many workers are at risk of redundancy. Others find work changing or are thinking about new skills and career options.

To help with these challenges, unionlearn have recently launched a new online initiative called Skills and recovery.

I’ve been working as part of this project to deliver a resource aimed at helping people plan their careers, gain skills, change roles or handle redundancy.

A collection of useful tools and support can be access through the Skills and recovery page on the unionlearn website. Some of these are existing resources brought into one place, while others are new, developed specifically to meet the growing demands.

A collection of new online learning modules has been developed to help people in the current employment climate. Topics include:

• Searching and applying for jobs in an online world
• Creating a digital CV and online job profile
• Online job interviews – tips and preparation
• Career planning – tools and tips
• Managing change and uncertainty at work
• Work opportunities in the green recovery
• New government skills initiatives for young people

These modules can be completed quickly, but progress can also be saved. A comprehensive collection of resources is provided via links at the end of each course.

Regional redundancy support pages have also been created. These pages focus on the English regions, with the details of the local support available in the areas throughout the region. We have also used official government big data to generate job demand and projected occupation growth specific to each region.

Other resources include the new ‘Create your own future’ facility, a career development tool created by a partnership of organisations include unionlearn. This features facilities such as an artificial intelligence video career coach and a selection of online courses.

Other tools include unionlearn’s Careerzone, a one-stop-shop for careers information. Much of this is powered by labour market big data. For example, a directory of occupations provides information on average pay, hours, qualifications and  projected growth.

There are also resources on digital skills, green skills, open university courses and much more. This includes information specifically for reps and ULRs.
You can visit this new resource at our Skills and Recovery page.