Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Poole – Outplacement Programme (Redundancies)

Outplacement Programme for 120 Employees

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), based in Poole, Dorset, approached Career Matters to provide tailored outplacement support during a period of organisational restructuring. Having previously delivered 1:1 career coaching and outplacement services for members of RNLI’s Executive and Senior Leadership teams, Career Matters was well-placed to support a broader group of employees facing redundancy.

The Challenge

In the first year, approximately 40 roles across various departments were identified as at risk of redundancy, followed by an additional 120 roles the following year. The affected roles spanned a wide range of functions, including: Engineering and Technical, Communications, Development and Engagement, Human Resources, Learning and Development, IT, Finance and other essential business functions

The diverse professional backgrounds of these employees required a flexible and personalised approach to meet their unique career transition needs.

Our Approach

Career Matters designed and delivered a comprehensive outplacement programme that included:

  • Workshops and Group Sessions: Interactive in-person workshops covering CV writing, cover letters / application letters, LinkedIn profiles, job search strategies, networking, and interview skills.
  • 1:1 Career Coaching: Personalised sessions for some individuals to help employees assess their career aspirations, identify transferable skills, and build confidence during a challenging period.
  • CV and Application Support: Tailored advice to craft compelling CVs and applications, either for alternative roles within RNLI or for external opportunities.
  • Interview Preparation: Practical coaching to help individuals perform confidently in interviews, whether for internal or external roles.
  • ‘Start Your Own Business’ Workshop: Interactive session to support those considering entrepreneurial paths.

The Outcome

Some participants successfully secured alternative roles within RNLI, leveraging their skills and experience to contribute to the organisation in new capacities. Others utilised the tools and support provided to transition into roles outside of RNLI, finding employment in industries aligned with their expertise, or set up their own business.

Feedback from participants highlighted the programme’s empathetic and practical approach, with individuals expressing appreciation for the tailored guidance during a period of uncertainty.

Testimonial: Annie Broadbent, People Development Manager at RNLI

“Julie Harding provided outplacement support to a number of staff at risk of redundancy at the RNLI. She proved a very empathetic and knowledgeable facilitator, supporting individuals to see that they had options for new opportunities in the future and giving them confidence to go and seek them out. I would definitely recommend Julie as a provider. She is responsive, flexible and knows her sector”.

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