IMPACT Manchester, a not-for-profit social housing procurement consortium based in Northenden, has this week spoken about how Apprenticeships are at the foundation of its business and a major part of its Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

As part of a sustainable employment programme, the business has provided training and employment opportunities through Apprenticeships to more than 200 people from local communities since its formation in 2006.

Kate Parker, Community Investment and Training Manager at IMPACT Manchester, said:  “We are tasked with providing a lasting legacy, both to communities and industry, through social landlords’ investment in improving communities across Manchester - providing opportunities through Apprenticeships enables us to meet these goals.

“We work with a number of building contractors and recruit people from the local community to work on our various construction projects. Apprenticeships provide an excellent training and development opportunity which result in well-rounded employees with enhanced skills, knowledge and experience to keep ahead in the industry. 

“Our programme encourages apprentices to remain in employment, allowing them to contribute positively to both the economy and the local community.

“We hope to see people progressing in their careers and, who knows, our apprentices could one day become the site or contract managers of the future.”

The apprentices recruited by IMPACT Manchester train in a massive range of skills including joinery, plumbing and painting and decorating and during 2009, 98 apprentices successfully completed their Apprenticeship, a number of which have now progressed onto an Advanced Apprenticeship. 

Commenting on the direct relevance Apprenticeships have to the construction industry, Kate said: “The course content is tailored by the construction sector for the construction sector and is an industry-specific qualification adaptable to varying job roles.

“Apprenticeships are widespread in the construction industry and, thanks to our relationship with social landlords, we have seen a steady stream of work and have been able to protect our apprentices from the recession.

“Apprenticeships deliver a win-win situation as the employer gets a keen and dedicated employee and the individuals are able to develop skills and knowledge required to succeed, alongside a nationally recognised qualification to back it up.

“We have seen first hand how apprentices put their heart and soul into their work.  They have a vested interest in the projects and their dedication is truly admirable.  We are proud to employ committed individuals from the local community and are delighted to be facilitating the development of a skilled and dedicated talent pool.”

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