• Garden centre retailer Dobbies has formed a new partnership with training services firm Workforce, and Antrim and Newtonabbey Council, in Northern Ireland. To assist with the recruitment process, Dobbies, alongside Workforce and the council, has developed two one-week employment academies.

The academy consists of training in customer service, employability, first aid and personal development, and equips participants with the skills and confidence to successfully secure a new role. So far, 12 participants of the academy have secured roles in Dobbies’ new Antrim store. Positions include roles across customer services, operations, the warehouse and the restaurant.