Apprenticeship pilot targets long-term unemployed

A NATIONAL government training scheme that aims to help the long-term unemployed get back into work has been piloted in Merseyside.

The programme, which has been delivered by Wates Construction and Liverpool Community College, offers candidates a career kick-start in the construction industry through a combination of training work placements and a guaranteed job interview with Wates and other local contractors.

The candidates, aged 21 to 39, have already spent two weeks at Liverpool Community College learning a variety of building trades including joinery and brickwork as well as pre employment training skills to help them become ready for work.

Once the classwork programme completes, all candidates will be offered an interview with Wates and its supply chain, with the intention of providing them with the opportunity to gain full time employment.

Elaine Bowker, principal at Liverpool Community College, said: “This programme is a great example of how the College works directly with businesses and the local community to create a skilled and desirable workforce.”