More than 5,000 jobs offered to Thomas Cook staff in Manchester

Thomas Cook staff will have the chance to apply for more than 5,000 roles on offer at a job fair in Manchester tomorrow.

The event being held at Manchester Airport is open to Thomas Cook employees and those who worked in the airline’s supply chain, who were also affected by its collapse last week.

Airlines including British Airways, TUI and Jet2.com will be represented at the event at the Runway Visitor Park, along with other travel brands including Hilton and Mercure Hotels.

A range of other retail, engineering and logistics businesses will also be represented.

The companies will be joined by support services such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, the Airport Academy and Jobcentre Plus.

Spaces are now limited due to strong demand, but there is still time for those impacted to register for the event, with one time slot still available.

Free public transport to the event is being provided by Manchester Airport, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and bus, train and tram operators, information on this will be sent out to attendees when they register.

The event will also offer one-to-one advice and direct people to relevant sources of information, advice and guidance about work, skills and training opportunities; how to claim redundancy payments, benefits; and wider wellbeing support.

Former Thomas Cook and supply chain employees must register their attendance at the Employment Fair in advance by visiting gmthomascook.com

It is being supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), the Growth Company and the office of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, along with Manchester Airport, Jobcentre Plus, Citizens Advice the Money Advice Service and the trade union Unite.

Mark Hughes, chief executive of the Growth Company and chair of the GM Taskforce established in the wake of Thomas Cook’s collapse, said: "This has been a very difficult time for the 3,000 former Thomas Cook employees in the North West and those in the wider supply chain.

"We have already been able to reach many of those affected through a dedicated website which has had over 8,000 visitors so far, and our helpline, email and drop-ins which are receiving enquiries every day."

Manchester Airport CEO Andrew Cowan said: "The whole of the Manchester Airport community was shocked and saddened by the news of Thomas Cook’s collapse.

"We are aware of the significant impact this has had on Thomas Cook’s 3,000 employees in the region, the majority of whom were close colleagues and friends of ours.

"That is why we are determined to come together as an airport community, and to work with our partners in the city and wider region, to do all we can to help those who have sadly lost their jobs.

"There are so many talented and experienced people who have found themselves in this predicament through no fault of their own, so we hope this event will provide some help and support to them at this challenging time."