Seventeen jobseekers have landed roles at a new city restaurant thanks to a free training service led by employment specialists Working Links.  

The Riverbank, which opens on 26 April at  Trent Bridge, needed ready trained staff prior to opening and benefited from Working Links' service that trains, pre-screens and supports people into work.

Part of the award winning Tom Brown's Brasserie and The Farndon Boathouse chain, The Riverbank needed to find bar staff, waiters and glass collectors ready for opening and were approached by Caroline West, Employer Consultant at Working Links, about supporting with recruitment. Caroline was able to support with an employer led three day 'routeway' programme that covered areas such as customer service, cash handling and health and safety as well as interview technique and tips for those invited for interview.

Nathan Hage, Managing Director at The Riverbank comments; "Working Links took the leg work out of the recruitment process for use. They processed over 150 CVs and were able to run open days and jobseeker screening for us. They even organised the interview day for us!"

One jobseeker who has benefited from the scheme is Chris Jeffries, who had been out of work for more than 12 months. With previous hospitality experience, he sailed through the training to take up the post of full time bar tender.

Chris comments; "Working Links offered a comfortable environment and the 'routeway' was really helpful in preparing for the assessment process. It was motivating and fun. The assessment and interview was more relaxed and I felt more informed as to what the employer was looking for. I am looking forward to working with the other people that have been taken on."