Onward partnered with Jobcentre Plus and sporting charity Everton in the Community in Merseyside to deliver a meet-the-employer event this summer. Attendees had an opportunity to make connections with local employers from the trade and construction sectors. AA Molyneux, Bell Group, Casey, George Jones and Vistry provided insights into different career paths.
Since the event, AA Molyneux has taken two of the attendees on as apprentices. Lee Barrow, contract manager at the Liverpool-based builder, said: “The event was very enjoyable, and it was nice to see so many people attending seeking opportunities.”
A recent report suggested that a critical shortage of skilled workers will seriously impact the government’s ability to deliver 1.5 million new homes by 2029.
Joanne Danaher, director of housing and homeownership at Onward, said: “By investing in initiatives that enable people to be their best, we’re empowering our customers to gain the confidence and skills they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
“Together with our partners, we’re not only transforming individual lives, we’re creating a ripple effect across the communities we serve, where every job secured, every qualification earned and every goal achieved contributes to a brighter future.”
Onward also provides residents with access to training and funding. The Onward Employment and Training Fund offers grants of up to £500 for eligible customers, to break down barriers to employment, such as covering the cost of a professional qualification, purchasing work equipment or securing childcare.
Alongside this, the landlord’s digital connect programme is bridging the digital divide by supplying free devices, data packages and practical skills training to those who need it.
Earlier this year, over 25 organisations, including several large housing associations, signed up to Places for People’s skills academy.