Galliford Try has taken an active role in tackling unemployment as part of its commitment to making a positive impact in the communities where it operates and delivering greater social value across through its activities.

The Group welcomed its first five placements under the Government's 'Kickstart' scheme, which provides six-month long work placements for 16-24 year-olds who are perceived to be at risk of long-term unemployment and are claiming Universal Credit.

In total, the business will provide 22 placements across a variety of roles ranging from business support to site labour and engineering, with an aim to convert the placements into jobs at the end of the six months.

-- Advertisement --

The scheme is funded by Government to 25 hours per week, with the Group contributing the difference to provide full-time roles where possible. As well as receiving a fully-paid placement and hands-on experience in a construction environment, individuals receive additional support such as employability skills, goal setting, CV building and interview behaviours to help develop their employability and boost their employment prospects in the future.

Ashley Lydon, 22, joined Galliford Try Facilities Management under the scheme and, since mid-June has been working at Yardley School in Birmingham where the business is responsible for compliance, hard facilities management and lifecycle maintenance works. Ashley, who has a Level 2 in Engineering, was referred to Galliford Try for a placement when he was made redundant from his previous role at an aerospace components testing company.

He said: "I was pleased to hear about the placement as it's a hands-on job where no day is the same, and while it is a bit different to what I've done before, it is an area that’s piqued my interest and one I can see myself in. The role is a good entry route into Galliford Try and construction and I’ve had a great start with the team who have been very helpful."