SC Company/Industry Closures Information

What resources are available when a company/industry closes to help workers find new jobs?

There are a number of resources available to employees when a company or industry closes. Upon notification of a closure, the first step is known as Rapid Response. In South Carolina, the SC Works Rapid Response is a program designed to help businesses and their employees navigate the effects of layoffs, closures, and workforce reductions. The typical process includes:

1. Notification of Layoff or Closure: When SC Works becomes aware of layoffs through notices filed under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, which requires certain employers to provide advance notice of large-scale layoffs or closures, SC Works coordinates to deploy a Rapid Response team on-site for affected employees.
   
2. Initial Employer Outreach: SC Works Rapid Response team contacts the employer to offer services and support. During this initial outreach, they coordinate with the employer to understand the scope of the layoff, timing, and any specific needs of the affected workforce.
   
3. Planning and Coordination: SC Works collaborates with local partners, such as community organizations and training providers, to arrange resources for impacted employees. They also work with management and, if applicable, labor representatives to set up services that are as minimally disruptive to both employees and the business as possible.
   
4. Rapid Response Meetings and Workshops: These sessions are organized on-site at a convenient times and locations for employees. At these events, the Rapid Response team provides information on services and benefits that are available to affected employees, including: Unemployment insurance benefits and filing process. Job search assistance and career counseling. Skills assessment and training opportunities. Financial guidance and access to community resources.
   
5. Career and Training Services: All affected employees receive services from SC Works centers, where they can use job search tools, participate in workshops, and get assistance from career coaches as they transition. SC Works can also connect employees with training opportunities to help them gain new skills or certifications.
   
6. Follow-up Support: Following the Rapid Response, SC Works continues to provide assistance, both to employees looking for new opportunities, and to employers seeking to minimize the impact of the layoff, and offer additional support as needed to ensure all employees receive the services they need to gain new employment.
   
   Planned Rapid Response Events-International Paper, Georgetown, SC
   Events Anticipated Next Week:
   -Rapid Response Services has been activated for employees of International Paper. Employees should be notified next week about planned informational sessions.
   
   Please check back for updates and follow us on Facebook at SC Works Waccamaw or go to www.waccamawworks.org. More details will be posted as soon as they are available.