Layoff Assistance
Rapid Response Program
If your company is facing a layoff, Rapid Response, a federal program available to qualifying organizations, can help you manage the process effectively. Rapid Response has two key functions:
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Provide instant assistance to companies and affected workers
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Provide employers with access to a skilled labor pool in their area
The WorkSmart Network, in conjunction with the WDBSCW and its business services team, can help you consider the transition of your workforce to other companies to save your company money on unemployment benefits. Our experienced workforce professionals can also offer your company coaching through the layoff process. The team can also prepare and schedule Rapid Response sessions to orient your displaced workers to the workforce services and community resources available to help them get back into the workforce.
How It Works
The Rapid Response transition team will first meet with your company, and then work one-on-one with displaced workers to discuss unemployment insurance benefits, job placement services and training options and we can help you coordinate with other services in your area.
While many resources are available online, resources are also available at your local American Job Center. We can also provide information and resources onsite via Rapid Response presentations upon request.
Topics may include:
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Unemployment Insurance (UI)
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Dislocated worker programs offering career and training help
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Job Center resources
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Healthcare resources available during your transition
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Retirement options
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Topic-specific workshops (resume writing, interviewing, online job search, household budgeting, career planning, coping with job loss, etc.)
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Labor market information
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Onsite WIOA Dislocated Worker Program registration sessions
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1-on-1 assistance and scheduled visits to the affected worksites
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Targeted job fairs for affected workers
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Transition centers and onsite assistance for affected workers
*Services can be tailored to meet the needs of the business and its workers. The services are available at no cost to the company because of funding provided by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Notice Requirements for Layoffs
In some cases, under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, federal/state law may require written notice be provided 60 days in advance of a business closing or workforce reduction. Employers must comply with both laws if they both apply. Once notice is provided, the Rapid Response team will work with a company to present information to workers affected by the layoff.
The Rapid Response Team
In South Central Wisconsin, the Rapid Response team is comprised of representatives from the WDBSCW, WorkSmart Network, State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, American Job Center partners, and local and state workforce and economic development partners.
Higher productivity and worker morale and lower absenteeism possible during the layoff process.
Lower UI costs as workers may become reemployed quicker when services are provided prior to the layoff.
Decreased likelihood of work disruptions during the layoff process.
Better public and community relations likely when a company highlights the services it’s providing to its workers during the layoff event.