STEPS are being taken by the Isle of Wight Council to address the staffing shortages currently being faced by the tourism and hospitality sector.

Due to pubs, restaurants, cafes and other hospitality venues being closed for periods of the Covid pandemic it has left a 'furlough hangover' - staff have found more permanent roles to keep them going, and are not returning to their previous jobs.

The severe staffing shortages are being noted across the country, also in the tourism industry, with challenges being found as establishments trying to fill the gaps.

Speaking at the Isle of Wight Council's cabinet meeting last week, cabinet member for business development and regeneration, Cllr Julie Jones-Evans, said she had spoken with officers, Visit Isle of Wight and other parties to address the issues.

She said there is a particular spotlight on the Island with a range of factors contributing to the employment issues including Brexit, Covid, the late starting summer season and a structural shift in the perception of the hospitality industry with people thinking of long hours and split shifts.

A range of short and long-term actions have been proposed to try and increase employability.

Cllr Jones-Evans said short-term measures include free courses for people to go on to gain new skills and job fairs.

She said it was not just about encouraging young people to find employment, but old as well, promoting opportunities for older people who have a lot of work experience.

Looking to the long term, Cllr Jones-Evans said there would be an Island Skills Plan coming to cabinet shortly for consideration.