Laid off workers are being drafted in to a lockdown “land army” to harvest crops and keep Britain fed.
Up to 60,000 fruit and veg-pickers are needed after closed borders and cancelled flights stopped many European migrants flocking here for summer jobs.
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Farms have appealed furloughed Brits to earn some extra cash from June while they wait to return to their normal work.
Environment Secretary George Eustice has issued a call to arms to the 2.8 million people sitting at home on 80 per cent of their usual pay.
He said: “We estimate that about two-thirds of migrant workers who usually come here won’t be coming this year.
“It’s down to us to get the harvest this year and we are very confident that manyu will be up for this challenge and ready to lend a hand in June.”
Thousands have already signed up to the Feed the Nation scheme, many of them with no previous experience of agricultural work.
They are in highest demand in key farming regions including Kent, Worcestershire and the East of Scotland.
Fruit-picking is just one of many jobs where workers are urgently needed to keep the country ticking over so the rest of us can stay at home and heed the health advice.
Packers, postal workers, delivery drivers, shelf-stackers and warehouse staff are among the most in demand.
Those keen to fill vital vacancies will from Monday be able to access opportunities in critical sectors through a dedicated online portal.
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Employment Minister Mims Davies is urging more Brits to channel their Bulldog spirit and join in with the national emergency effort to meet fresh demands of the economy in these troubled times.
She said: “The nation’s response to this health emergency truly has brought out the best of British. Millions are making huge sacrifices to protect the NHS and save lives, while those on the frontline roll up their sleeves and get on with the job – showing the determination, grit and bravery that define our country.
“I offer my endless thanks to those already doing sterling essential work and we want to match others who are keen to get involved with the critical roles that are out there right now.
“This new jobsite does just that – whether it’s sorting parcels, helping pack online groceries or getting out on land helping with the summer harvest , these are the jobs critical to keeping the country well fed and ticking over while putting cash in the bank.”
With more people stepping up and plugging vital gaps in our army of essential workers already doing their bit, they will join millions already serving on the frontline of the nation’s response to COVID-19, helping keep the country running.
Government guidelines require all employers to follow up to date advice on protecting employees in the workplace, including observing social distancing.
The DWP site also has more than 14,000 important vacancies working across health and social care. For more information about what is available go to jobhelp.dwp.gov.uk
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