Jeff Smith MP today met with former staff from Thomas Cook in Parliament to hear first-hand their stories of how the collapse of the company has left them unemployed and in financial difficulty.
Jeff said:
“I spoke to a number of cabin crew from Thomas Cook airlines who don’t know where they will find a job. In some cases they have twenty years of experience and find themselves starting their careers over again.
“The Government really hasn’t done enough to support them and the company. I’m pleased that help is now being made available in Greater Manchester.”
Greater Manchester’s authorities have drawn up plans to support Thomas Cook staff affected by the company’s collapse. A taskforce featuring trade unions, Jobcentre Plus, Manchester Airports Group (MAG), local authorities and others has been set up, signposting affected people to advice and support with the stated aim of assisting employees to retrain or find new opportunities as soon as possible.
Affected staff can now access advice and support via a single web portal: gmthomascook.com and accompanying contact email address: info@gmthomascook.com.
A helpline has also been set up for Greater Manchester-based Thomas Cook employees: 0161 393 6443. The lines are open Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 8:00pm and will connect employees straight to an advisor.
Manchester Airport and Greater Manchester partners are hosting a jobs fair at the airport this Thursday 3rd October for former Thomas Cook employees, including supply chain employees.
It will bring together employers from the airport campus and wider region, as well as support services such as the Airport Academy offering CV advice and wider support.
Further details and the link for people to sign up is via gmthomascook.com.
Please be sure to share these details with anyone you know who has been affected.
JEFF SMITH MP 