Creating Sustainable jobs

VINCI Facilities are undertaking refurbishment works at a disused, rundown commercial unit in Sandwell which will be used as a construction training hub. The works are being carried out by VINCI Facilities at no cost to the council.

The groups targeted for the training will be youth offenders, ex offenders, people on probation and disengaged groups to help provide a preventative measure against a growing gang culture and gun/knife crime. The training centre titled “The Hub” will be the first of its kind in Sandwell and will open its doors in August 2010.

This exciting new project is being lead by the Think Local Construction Team part of the Economic Regeneration & Skills Division at Sandwell MBC and supported by Urban Living, the government regeneration agency, which aims to improve neighbourhoods, create a vibrant and sustainable housing market characterised by a thriving economy, cohesive communities.

Tony Ford Operations Director at VINCI Facilities commented:

“VINCI Facilities began working with Sandwell Homes over 5 years ago and since that time, we have brought over 6,000 homes up to decent homes standard. We see ourselves as a local citizen, working to improve the lives of every community in which we work. To do so, means giving young people the tools and the opportunities to make a real difference in their lives through training and employment. The Hub is just one of a number of initiatives we are supporting to achieve this aim”

The training which will be lead by Future Skills Sandwell, will be aimed at traditional construction trades such as Bricklaying, Plastering, Carpentry & Joinery, Plumbing and Painting & Decorating. There will also be Eco-friendly build and maintenance training aimed at Economy and Environment awareness in new build. Further training such as ITC and basic skills to support the trainees in stages of job search will be developed to provide further support for the clients

Published: 16/07/2010