Drayton Manor recruits new security staff in support of government programme
A JOINT initiative between Drayton Manor Theme Park, the government and a security firm has helped create 18 new jobs.
Joining the theme park in the project has been the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and Tamworth-based Gold Standard Security.
The pilot programme saw a group of 18-23 year olds, some of who were long term unemployed, receive a wide range of training, including first aid and conflict management, physical interaction and customer service skills to enable them to apply for the Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence for door supervision.
The six-week project was such a success that 14 have now been retained by Gold Standard Security, with three being offered a year-long apprenticeship. The remaining 11 have been earmarked to work for the security company at future festivals and events.
Four members of the group will be working at Drayton Manor Theme Park during its 2014 season. Gold Standard will also be one of the security companies working at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Sarah Collins, Drayton Manor Theme Park’s HR General Manager, said: “Drayton Manor Theme Park is one of the region’s largest employers and we have a proud reputation of supporting the local economy through job creation.
“Unfortunately, youth unemployment remains a concern for the UK, but programmes like this can offer young people the necessary skills and training, which will allow them to find work. This programme may only be a small step but it’s certainly one in the right direction of reducing youth unemployment, and we’re deeply proud of its success.”
James Brown from Gold Standard Security, which is an SIA approved contractor, said: “We are pleased to associate with Drayton Manor Theme Park and have successfully recruited and trained a large number of local young people. This has given them inspiration and boosted their confidence as well as developing key skills to enable them to secure positions within the security industry.”
Earlier this year, Drayton Manor Theme Park announced it had successfully hired more than 200 new employees for its 2014 season after improving its recruitment process.
