THERE are calls for Jobcentre facilities in Okehampton to be improved in the wake of the PoleStar redundancies.

The town's Jobcentre closed in March 2009, but a limited 'outreach service' was brought to the Ockment Centre in 2010.

Jobcentre staff held an information day at the PoleStar site on Monday to provide advice and support to former employees.

But there are still concerns about the limited provision available at the Ockment Centre outreach service.

Town councillor and former mayor Kay Bickley said: 'There has been a good short term provision of advice and help made available for those affected — both directly and indirectly —by the situation at PoleStar.

'In the long term, however, face to face contact with a local member of staff at a Jobcentre is important, and as a town council we have asked for extra provision for the town because of the huge increase in unemployment in the area.'

Chairman of Okehampton Chamber of Trade Ian Bailey said: 'We lost our Jobcentre two years ago now, and at that time the chamber said it was an unfortunate loss to the town. Now, that is being proved. At times like this we really need a full-time Jobcentre service in Okehampton.'

When pressed for information on plans for extra services and opening times for Okehampton, a Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: 'Jobcentre Plus is working closely with partner organisations such as HMRC and South Hams housing benefit and council tax office, to ensure those affected by the recent announcement at PoleStar receive the support and advice they need during this difficult time.

'Once people are unemployed they need to phone 0800 055 6688. Over the phone, an appointment will be made for the jobseeker to sign on at the nearest Jobcentre Plus or outreach service, such as the Ockment Centre, where a complete personal service is available.'

On Tuesday, Central Devon MP?Mel Stride said: 'We have held a number of discussions with Jobcentre Plus to establish the level of support that they will be providing to those affected by the closure of PoleStar and I am pressing them hard to ensure that appropriate support is provided "on the ground" in the town.

'I was pleased that an information day was held by Jobcentre Plus in Okehampton yesterday and that a number of people were able to attend. I will be closely monitoring the response to these activities and will continue to firmly press Jobcentre Plus to provide whatever assistance it can.'