News - 2/02/2010
Employment Success
Eleven long term unemployed people have now found full time work thanks to an innovative training programme run by Wates Living Space.
The eleven candidates from the Inverclyde region have just completed the two week Building Futures training programme which equips candidates with construction skills, job preparation and an all-important boost to their self confidence to give them the best possible chance of leaving long term unemployment.
David Blackwood, Wates Project Manager said: “Wates are committed to giving something back to the communities in which we work and live and helping people to get a job is one of the best ways to do that. These people will have a great chance to achieve financial security for themselves and their families thanks to this scheme – and their own hard work.”
Wates are currently refurbishing housing within the Inverclyde area for local housing provider River Clyde Homes and the Building Futures programme is one of the extra activities Wates undertakes as part of their commitment to the area. The £15M framework is part of the ongoing programme undertaken by the association to make improvements to properties in order to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) by 2015.
Wates have been working in partnership with Inverclyde Council, River Clyde Homes, James Watt College and Inverclyde Community Development Trust to deliver the programme and identify the candidates to participate.
The community investment programme concentrates on skills development and training in communities of most need. The overall aim of the partnership is to boost skills and employment, helping individuals achieve economic independence and adding to the national pool of skilled construction workers.
Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld Vice Convenor of Economic and Social Regenerationsaid: “This scheme is very welcome in the current economic climate. This programme has provided greatly needed employment opportunities for eleven residents in Inverclyde who in these tough economic times are struggling to get on the career ladder.”
Iain Cunningham, one of Building Futures delegates, said: "The Building Futures scheme has been really useful and beneficial to me, especially giving a second chance at a career and the confidence. I was really pleased to complete the course and obtain a full time position.” David Blackwood, Project Manager for Wates Living Space, explains: “Building Futures is a key part of our commitment to River Clyde Homes and clearly supports our values of respect for people and communities. Our programme allows those facing barriers to employment to acquire new skills and experience which will enable them to sustain long term employment, education or training. The enthusiasm showed by the delegates was second to none and we will continue to support them in their new role on our sites here in Inverclyde. I would also like to thank our supply chain partners for their involvement in making the scheme a success.”
Roy Steel River Clyde Homes Chair said: “River Clyde Homes is proud to be a key player in this scheme. While housing is our key role, we have a responsibility to ensure the benefits of our investment affects the wider area through the creation of employment opportunities. We are grateful to our partnering contractor Wates for giving these eleven people a chance of employment, and I wish them all the success in their new career.”
