STAFF at Sheerness Jobcentre are working with other agencies to help staff from the ASW steel plant find other jobs or sign on for retraining packages.

Jan Morrison, manager of the centre at Millennium Way, said: "We are in touch with ASW and putting together any help we can for those made redundant."

Meanwhile, Sure Start Sheerness, the organisation which helps families with children up to the age of five, is working with other agencies to help those facing hardship.

Its partners include Sittingbourne and Sheppey Citizens' Advice Bureau, which is providing benefits and debt advice; the Housing Aid and Advice Centre, and the Island Partnership which advises on access to training.