December 2011

Building solid foundations with Get into Construction

Gerard McHenry (West Belfast), Brenda McAteer, O’Hare & McGovern, David Fewings (Markethill)Sixteen unemployed young people recently celebrated their graduation from The Trust’s Get into Construction programme.

The six week programme offers pre-employment skills development, accredited training and qualifications to young people who want to forge careers in the construction industry. It is supported by the Construction Leadership Group which incorporates Farrans (Construction) Limited, O’Hare & McGovern Ltd as well as Heron Bros. Ltd., H&J Martin Limited, and Harcourt Construction (NI) Limited.

Ian Jeffers, Director of Prince’s Trust in Northern Ireland congratulated the graduates and thanked all members of the Construction Leadership Group for their commitment to The Trust.

“While the construction industry is facing challenging times, the fact that these businesses continue to support the Get into Construction programme is a testimony to their foresight in developing skills and best practice and encouraging our young people to seek employment in what is an exciting and rewarding sector.

All of the young people placed who completed work placements gained vital hands on experience and a valuable insight into the daily operations of a building site.

Several have secured jobs as a result of the programme while others are going on to complete their NVQ1 or back into education.”

The Trust runs a series of Get into courses over a variety of sectors such as retail, cooking, youth work, social care and hospitality and catering. Aimed at young people aged 16 to 25, Get Into courses provide recognised qualifications and practical experience as well as the opportunity to meet and impress potential employers.