Pre-employment Initiative Gains Momentum

"Momentum", a pre-employment initiative for the construction trade, has been shortlisted in the Welsh Housing Awards 2012.

Developed and co-ordinated by the Neath Port Talbot team of the EU-backed South West Workways project, the "Momentum" initiative is short-listed in the Developing Skills and Capacity category. The award ceremony takes place on 23rd November at the Vale Hotel.

The Momentum pre-employment initiative for the construction trade was developed as part of the Workways provision in conjunction with NPT Homes and their main contractors including Mears Group, Mi-Space, Jistcourt and Ian Williams. Other employer involvement includes Sparks, Paul Jones Fencing, Andrew Scott Ltd., and Alun Griffiths Civil Engineering.

Momentum was a week-long interview process where candidates were able to gain skills in a variety of trades such as plumbing, carpentry, mobile scaffolding, tiling and external wall installation. Employers involved were then able to select suitable candidates for employment based on their abilities and skills. After receiving applications from 27 people, 12 candidates undertook intense interviews and attendees successfully gained a CSCS card.

Councillor Ali Thomas, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council said: "I am delighted that the Workways team's initiative "Momentum" has been shortlisted. The partnership approach of Momentum will result in 12 local people securing work in the construction trade. This adds to what has already proved to be a very successful project which has already placed over 1200 local people back into employment."

Ian Jones, Workways Project Manager said: "During the process, each candidate had the opportunity to develop and showcase their skills. Across the board, their enthusiasm has been very impressive. The commitment shown by the contractors to recruit unemployed people has been refreshing, and as a project this is something Workways will continue to encourage".

Workways tackles the barriers that prevent individuals from finding employment. The project provides support with job searching, CVs, applications forms, interview skills, telephone techniques, access to volunteering and opportunities to gain qualifications. Participants are also matched with local businesses, helping them gain the vital experience needed to find long term employment. Workways is backed with almost £13 million from the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.