Consortia approach - Management Trainee employed by local construction company as a direct result of Integrate member's commitment to targeted recruitment and training

 As a direct result of securing contracts with a number of Integrate housing association members, one of Wales' largest independently owned construction companies Jehu Project Services has recruited local lad Kieran, from Fairwater Cardiff, as their latest management trainee.

Above: Management Trainee Kieran will be working on a number of sites across the Integrate consortia, including Newydd Housing Association’s site in Barry where he will assist with the refurbishment of a previous derelict building to provide 9 new affordable rental apartments.

Founded by Jack Jehu in the early 1930's, Jehu is now one of Wales largest independently owned construction companies. Working on a number of new build and refurbishment contacts with Cadwyn Housing Association, Coastal Housing Group and Newydd Housing Association, Jehu were required to provide job and training opportunities as a core contractual requirement, giving back to the local community.

The prospect of working for an award winning contractor on a paid management traineeship attracted over fifty applicants, including tenants, Working Links clients, college students and a number of young people who were not in employment education or training. Kieran successful made it through the recruitment process, shining throughout at both interview and work trial stage where he spent a day on a live site finding out more about the position. From a young age Kieran knew he wanted a career in the construction industry, inspired by his father who has his own bricklaying business. Starting out as a general site labourer, Kieran progressed to become a Bricklayer which gave him the opportunity to gain his NVQ immediately after leaving school.  Representing his college in an advanced brickwork competition for the Guild of Bricklayers, Kieran came 2^nd place in Wales and top 5 in Britain! Kieran will spend time with the QS, estimating and construction departments developing his understanding of site documentation and processes, whilst actively promoting and achieving a high standard of health and safety at all times.  Keen to progress onto an HNC followed by an undergraduate degree in Construction Management, Kieran hopes to complete his second year Site Management OCN this year, ready to progress onto the next step of his career with support and funding from Jehu.  

To date, the Intergrate project has leveraged 388 employment and training opportunities totaling over 17,000 job and training weeks through adopting a core approach to community benefits to maximise the impact of the welsh pound through the Integrate Project.

Taff Community Allotment Video

Back in June, we blogged about Taff Housing Association's community allotment, following the generous donation of over £8,000 of materials from Intergrate contractors.
Please check out Taff TV to watch a short film of how the Allotment came to be. 

http://www.taffhousing.co.uk/tafftv

Six month employment contract created through Newydd's commitment to creating jobs and training opportunities for local job seekers

 

 

 

As a direct result of Newydd Housing Association’s commitment to targeted recruitment and training, a six month Multi-Skilled employment opportunity has been created on a new build housing development, located in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan.

Robert, 33 from Tremorfa, is the latest recruit to join the team working on site at Newydd’s new build housing development, consisting of 8 homes, to include two adapted homes for disabled residents.  The development in the Herberts, Llanfair will assist local people to overcome the challenges of affordable housing in rural areas in the Vale. Committed to giving back to the local community through social clauses in procurement, Integrate member Newydd require contractors to meet a number of good practice employment and training requirements as a contractual requirement.

Liaising with the contractor Bullock Construction, it was agreed that a six month Muti-Skilled Operative post would be created, providing an unemployed young person the opportunity to develop their skill set and return to paid employment, with a competitive salary.  Following a successful recruitment process linking with government appointed work program provider ‘Working Links’, Robert started on site the following week. Head of Working Links Employer Services Ross Watts commented; “This is a great example of how using targeted recruitment and training clauses can significantly contribute to changing lives & creating more sustainable futures for people in the communities we work.  It’s hugely encouraging to see a housing association as prestigious as Newydd using their procurement power to leverage further community benefit. To make it a success It’s crucial to have the support and commitment of employers such as Bullock Construction so that meaningful job opportunities can be created and linked to unemployed people with the right skills for the job”

Today, I caught up with Robert, three days into his employment to find out how he was settling in on site. “So far it’s been really good. I’ve been out of work for several months and have constantly been applying for construction jobs both online and in person. I’ve even been dropping in to any live site I have seen, to introduce myself and hand over my CV, with no luck. I was really pleased when Working Links told me about this Multi-Skilled Operative job as I have a strong background in general laboring. I came for the interview last Thursday and was told the next day that I had been successful and Dave the site manager wanted me to start on the Monday. I couldn’t believe it!”

 

Above: Architects perspective of completed development

Image courtesy of Bullock Construction

 

Above: View of the site August 2012

Site Manger Dave Owen commented, “I have been very impressed with how smooth the recruitment process has gone and the quality of candidates received from Working Links via Integrate Project Coordinator Clare. Robert has a demonstrated a positive attitude and a passion for getting on with the job in hand whilst ensuring high standards and a safe working environment is maintained at all times.”

Robert who has City and Guilds Level 2 in Plumbing and a Diploma in Painting and Decorating explained that his dream job would be a gas plumber running his own business, but he lacks the onsite work experience to process onto Plumbing NQV level two. This is a common issue encountered by thousands of job seekers and college students. Without making targeted recruitment and training a core requirement within contracts, hundreds of potential openings are being passed by.

Paul Roberts, Chief Executive of Newydd said, “We are delighted that Robert has gained employment with our contractors Bullock following our commitment to the Targeted Recruitment and Training programme. It is clear that this position is making a difference to Robert and we wish him every success in his new role. We will continue to support the recruitment and training programme to ensure other apprentices get every chance of job security in the future.”

To date, Newydd has leveraged 14 employment and training opportunities with 9 different contractors, through adopting core approach to community benefits to maximise the impact of the welsh pound through the Integrate Project.  This full time six month contract will not only allow Robert to develop his skill set with a reputable contractor, but provide access to future employment and training opportunities. To date, the project has actively engaged with 388 participants of whom 93 are currently live on site in paid employment, apprenticeships and valuable work experience. Following completion of the six month period, the Integrate project team will seek further opportunities for Robert, particularly in the plumbing trade.

 

If you feel you are able to offer Robert a plumbing apprenticeship or employment in this field, please contact: Clare Parry: cparry@uwha.co.uk 07554 415846  

 

South Wales trio nail apprentices with Lovell

 

 Photo: Trainee plumbers Lewis Summerson, on left, and Tom Wilcox on right

                  

Three young men from South Wales have nailed apprenticeships with Integrate member Cardiff Community Housing Assocation and their housing maintenance contractor Lovell.

Lovell has taken on trainee plumbers Tom Wilcox and Lewis Summerson, both aged 19, and 21-year-old apprentice carpenter Joel Williams to work on the major maintenance reactive building repairs and electrical maintenance services contract for 2,650 homes it began earlier this year for Cardiff Community Housing Association (CCHA).

Lovell will support Tom and Joel, both from Barry, and Lewis, from Canton, Cardiff, as they study for qualifications in their chosen trades. The three apprentices will attend Cardiff and Vale College, Barry, on day release and gain on-site experience working on the CCHA scheme, supervised by qualified construction professionals.

Tom and Lewis are working towards NVQ Level 2 qualifications in plumbing while Joel, who has already passed his NVQ Level 2 award is studying for the advanced NVQ Level 3 qualification in carpentry.

“It’s great to have the backing of a national company as I work towards my qualifications,” says Lewis. “Lovell is both supporting me in my college studies and giving me the opportunity to gain the practical working experience I need to really learn my trade” says Tom.

“Creating training opportunities such as these apprenticeships for Tom, Lewis and Joel, is a priority for Lovell and never more so at a time of rising youth unemployment,” says Simon Medler, managing director of the Lovell repairs and maintenance business. “We want to leave a lasting legacy in the communities where we work, including the enduring benefits that result from new job and training opportunities.”

The four-year CCHA contract involves the Lovell team delivering reactive building maintenance and repair services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to the building fabric, drainage and electrical installations of occupied and void homes owned by the housing association.

Official opening of @Loudoun

CCHA was joined by Health Minister Lesley Griffiths on 11th June to celebrate another key milestone in the £13m regeneration of Loudoun Square with the official opening of @Loudoun, a multi-functional building offering a host of services for the local community.

@Loudoun is home to the new Butetown health centre, a new Culture and Media Centre, three social enterprise units and Cardiff Council’s BEST and Hub information services.

The new Butetown Health Centre provides the local community with a whole host of services under one roof including two GP practices and a dental practice all with extra capacity for additional patients. The primary care element of this facility also includes an integral community pharmacy.

Community health services are also available including a dental surgery, District Nursing, Health Visiting, Child Health, Podiatry, Dietetics, Audiology, Sexual Health and Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia services.

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths welcomed the provision of the new integrated health centre: "Health services are at the heart of this excellent community development. @Loudoun won't just deliver economic and social benefits, but a range of high quality, accessible health services, working together to serve the needs of the local community."

Paul Hollard, Interim Chief Executive of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB) added: "I am delighted that the UHB has able to provide such a comprehensive range of primary and community health services for the residents of Butetown, in one facility, @Loudoun. This is the culmination of a major work programme across a number of partners and I am extremely grateful to all those who have worked so hard on this project to make the vision a reality."

A community cinema, digital film making suite, celebration space, training and meeting rooms all make up an exciting new culture and media centre – CMC@Loudoun. Designed to be as flexible as possible, this space will form a creative hub for a wide range of community activities. Three social enterprise units provide affordable office accommodation for hire by local services providers or those wishing to set up a business.

Kevin Protheroe, Chief Executive of CCHA, said: "The opening of @Loudoun is significant for all partners involved, especially the local community. They now have access to high quality health, information and recreational services all under one roof. Our new culture and media centre offers free weekly film screenings for local residents, access to creative projects, space for community group activities and meeting and training rooms. We firmly believe that @Loudoun will have a big impact on the regeneration of Loudoun Square."

Council services are also available including 'The Hub at Butetown', a one-stop desk located on the ground floor, and the BEST centre, a training and enterprise service which provides help for jobseekers to find or train for work and career advice and guidance for those in or out of work on the first floor. Designed by architects Austin Smith Lord, the building is accessed via a bright airy atrium which leads to the health centre, pharmacy, culture and media centre and enterprise units.

The final phase of the project involves the demolition of the dilapidated 1960s Butetown health centre and completion of 48 apartments, 13 of which are specifically designed for disabled people and is due for completion in March 2013.

Coastal Housing Group - £8m scheme set create around 50 new jobs

A MULTI-MILLION pound project to breathe new life into a historic section of Swansea city centre will go before planners in the autumn.
Housing group Coastal is hoping to develop an £8 million commercial and housing scheme in land off Castle Lane which could see the creation of more than 100 jobs.
The Castle Quarter project just off the strand would offer affordable accommodation and commercial units in a single building.
If it were to be given the go-ahead Coastal Housing bosses hope the development could be completed by mid-2014.
Construction would begin by March of next year if the company can secure planning permission.
An application is yet to be submitted. But Coastal is hoping to have completed this stage of the process in the next three months.
The development could see around 50 jobs created in the construction phase with a further 60 positions potentially being opened up when the commercial units begin trading.
The Castle Quarter development is earmarked to include 26 apartments available on an affordable rent basis.
A further four units will be available for private sale.

Above: Located on Wind Street, Swansea castle  stands on a clifftop, below which the river Tawe originally flowed.

Coastal's director of development Gerraint Oakley said: "This project represents a significant investment which we hope will reinvigorate this historic part of the city centre.
"We have a unique opportunity to develop something special here which will offer affordable accommodation in a city centre location."
Coastal will hold a series of public information events at its offices next month.
Mr Oakley added: "Plans for the development will be available to view at our information events and I would urge anyone interested in finding out more to come along."

http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/pound-8m-scheme-set-revive-historic-area-Swansea/story-16455544-detail/story.html

Update: Pathway to Apprenticeship Student James is transferred using the power of consortia, with a fantastic outcome- an apprenticeship!

In March, we blogged about Pathway to Apprenticeship (PtA) student James gaining valuable work experience on Newydd Housing Assocation’s Code for Sustainable Homes level 5 development in Penarth, being built by the Leadbitter Group. Following the ten week placement on site, James continually impressed the Leadbitter team and sub-contractors with his commitment to learning and passion for construction. Following completion of the bricklaying phase of the four town houses, James was offered a transfer to one of Taff Housing Association’s new build sites, utilising the power of consortia.  

Taff’s Albert Walk development in Canton, Cardiff includes 5 flats and 10 houses with a small courtyard and parking area. As a result of the transfer between Integrate housing association members, James has gained a further four weeks bricklaying experience, which has subsequently lead to a provisional bricklaying apprenticeship offer.

Steve James of Leadbitter sub-contractor S J Brickwork is currently liaising with CSkills to formalise James’s contract of employment. “During the course of both placements James has become valued team member working to a high standard at all times. The idea of losing such a strong and committed brickie has spurred me into taking him on our books as an apprentice Bricklayer.”

Video below: Albert Walk Site Manager Rob Harris praised the transfer process of PtA students and apprentices through the power of consortia.

Integrate consortia continues to support local Welsh Charities

****Press Release ****

The Integrate Targeted Recruitment and Training project which supports local communities through the creation of employment and training opportunities, also actively supports local third sector organisations in delivering other community benefits. Utilising the power of consortia, Integrate has supported Welsh homeless charity Llamau, who are currently renovating a terraced house in Cardiff, with generous donations of materials. The refurbished terraced house in Cathays will become home to five young people in the summer, providing a stepping stone from supported accommodation towards independent living.
The property currently undergoing renovation by Newman Builders features five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a large kitchen/diner and an outdoor area, combines period features with modern bright and airy space. Materials valued at over £3,000 have been donated to Llamau through Integrate by local contractors who are working with member housing associations. Donations include; Mira – Electric shower Keepmoat - Worcester Bosh combi boiler Robert Price - 50 litres of matt vinyl paint and15 sq metre's (730units) of white tiles Sonic Windows - Front Door Willis Construction – Kitchen and worktops.

Integrate member United Welsh Housing Association also heavily contributed to project; locating a suitable house, arranging surveys and purchase together with providing all the pre and post contract roles for no cost. In addition, United Welsh encouraged their preferred Architect, Engineer, and Quantity Surveyor to reduce their fees as a gesture of goodwill.

Below: Like most rooms, the transformation of bedroom one is steadily taking shape

 Above: Photo taken in March 2012

 Above: Photo taken in June 2012

Llamau Chief Executive - Frances Beecher commented; “we are totally overwhelmed with the generosity and support the Integrate contractors have shown to Llamau’s young people. The things they have donated will not only create a beautiful and high quality home for the young people involved, but demonstrates that they are supported and valued by others, something they haven’t always experienced in the past. This exciting project, supported wholeheartedly by everyone involved, will provide young tenants with an optimum environment from which they can begin to live independently and as fully participating members of their community.” Llamau will offer a friendly landlord service to the five young people, who, as a result of their previous support from Llamau will already have significantly improved independent living skills. The strength of this project is that it mirrors the more gradual route to independence offered by shared accommodation, and when theyfeel ready, they will be able to move on to their own independent tenancies.

Job opportunity- Management Trainee - Jehu Project Services

JOB SPECIFICATION


POSITION : Management Trainee

RESPONSIBLE TO : Site Manager /Project Manager

COMMENCE :       July/August 2012

HOURS : 8.00am – 5.00 pm

SALARY : £9 – 14k (depending on experience)

LOCATION : Cardiff, Swansea and surrounding areas

Duties

*Take instruction from the Line Manager.
* Learn and actively promote good site practice in connection with Health & Safety
* Learn and understand site administration and documentation
* Assist in scheduling of materials
* Assist Site Engineer in his duties
* Spend time with QS, estimating and Construction Departments
* Continual progression to develop management skills including college studies.
* Assist in Co-ordination of sub-contractors and materials
* Promote and achieve a high standard of cleanliness for site and accommodation
* Assist others in their roles.


Primary Objectives

*Attend College to complete formal qualifications in Construction
*Develop an understanding of construction methods and techniques
*Develop an understanding of the financial constraints in construction
*Develop an understanding of Construction Health & Safety requirements and Standards
*Learn how to successfully co-ordinate all Sub-Contractors and Suppliers
*Maintain accurate and timely site records and detailed correspondence with Client, Designers,
Sub-Contractors and Suppliers
*Assist to ensure all aspects of the work are programmed, planned and resourced adequately
*Fully develop an understanding of project documentation.



Supporting Priorities

*Maintain and enhance Jehu Project Services’ reputation and always portray them in a positive
light
*Adopt a caring, professional approach towards ensuring good Client, Consultant, Sub Contractor and Supplier relationships
*Have basic understanding of contract
*Be presentable.


Performance Measures

*Attendance and successful completion of college courses
*Positive feedback from Line Manager and Department manager

*Completion of successful periodic personnel development reviews.

 

Requirements

* Education - to hold minimum of 4 GCSE to at least grade c, of which 3 must be Maths, English & a Science – it is imperative that the candidate is able to enrol on a BTEC Ordinary National Diploma in Building Studies or similar

*Ability to take and carry out clear instructions from your peers

* Ability to work on own initiative with enthusiasm and drive to succeed in Construction Management

*A team player

*Good attendance/time keeping/health record

*Full driving licence or provisional and working towards gaining full licence

*Experience is not essential

>To apply, please email your CV and a cover letter outlining why you feel you would be suitable
for the post to Clare Parry – cparry@uwha.co.uk by Friday 5.30pm 15th June 2012.

Clare-Integrate

Taff tenants delighted with allotment makeover - Integrate contractors generously donate time and over £8,000 of materials

A full-scale action day to transform a once derelict allotment site has been hailed a success by plot holders, demonstrating the power a partnership approach through consortia can have on community investment. More than 50 people attended the Taff Housing Allotment Action Day on May 29th to help construct a pond, build a fruit cage and plant up new raised timber beds.

Taff Housing took on five allotment plots in early 2011, facing a mammoth task to remove a wilderness of marsh grass and tonnes of dumped rubbish. With support from Integrate contractors through the donation of materials and time, the plots have been transformed into an amazing project, with tenants growing their own fresh vegetables for the first time. Taff has been busy developing new social housing sites in Cardiff – and key contractors involved kindly pitched in to provide much needed facilities.
On the action day, staff from construction group Leadbitter planted up five new raised beds donated by the company, which will be used by disabled and low mobility tenants to enjoy planting and picking produce. Developer M&J Cosgrove also pitched in with their staff landscaping a new pond area for tenants to enjoy. Building firm mi-space also came up trumps, donating a fruit cage, which has been planted up with currants and berry bushes to harvest later in the year. Taff’s maintenance contractor GKR has been busy installing fencing, gates and footpaths, which have made a massive improvement to the site access.

Above: Leadbitter community investment staff and apprentices filling the five raised timber beds donated by the construction group, with a variety of crops

Above: GKR have installed a number of wide access paths improving access across the site

Above: Gary Cosgrove, Director of M&J Cosgrove enjoyed getting stuck in alongside tenants

Taff Housing Chief Executive Elaine Ballard personally thanked all the contractors for their sterling efforts to transform the site. Allotment group chairman Fanwell Tandi said: “On behalf of the Taff Community Allotment Group, I would like to convey my sincere gratitude to the magnificent work all the contractors have done for our allotment. “What was 12 months ago, a derelict piece of land, has been given a facelift and turned into a magnificent garden and recreation centre for the tenants.”

If you would like to get involved in a community project as part of your commitment to community investment and targeted recruitment and training, please get in touch:

Clare Parry

Project Coordinator
Integrate  
e-mail: cparry@uwha.co.uk
Mobile: 07554 415846

Meeting the Pathways to Apprenticeship participants at Elfed Avenue, Penarth

Above: PtA student James and site Manager Vernon

Back in March, you may remember reading the blog post about Newydd’s new eco-development currently being erected by Leadbitter on Elfed Avenue Penarth (http://integratetrt.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/exciting-new-eco-housing-development-in.html)
As promised, we have been back on site to meet the two new Pathways to Apprenticeship participants. Currently studying NVQ2 Bricklaying at Cardiff and Vale College, James Petryna and Liam Shioda have been given the opportunity to develop their eco construction skill set, laying the bricks of the four homes that are being built to Code 5 during a five week placement.
James Petryna, 22, from Cardiff has a wide range of experience on his CV including property maintenance and kitchen fitting, however he has always been keen on developing a career in bricklaying. “I’ve wanted to do bricklaying for the last two years, but was worried it would be difficult to get the experience I would need for a job. I have received lots of support from Leadbitter's Community Engagement Coordinator Nicole, Site Manager Vernon, SJB Bricklaying and the Integrate project. I am now hoping to secure an apprenticeship following this placement.”
Lewis Shioda, 19 also from Cardiff has also enjoyed the opportunity to work on the site. Lewis commented “I wanted to understand more about green technologies, so I jumped at the chance to be involved in the placement organised through the Integrate project. I am particularly interested with the joint system of a Code 5 home and working with a different brick. I have heard that there is a shortage of tradesmen with green technology experience, so I am glad I can add this to my CV.”
The Welsh Government are supporting young learners aged between 16 – 24 years of age through intensive training to put them on the pathway to becoming an apprentice. This means that a group of young people, pre-trained and with a track record of turning up on time, are now ready to become productive Apprentices.

If you can offer James or Liam a bricklaying apprenticeship, please contact: the Integrate team Michelle Smith msmith@uwha.co.uk or Clare Parry cparry@uwha.co.uk

Clare-Integrate

Apprenticeship Opportunity - Painting and Decorating with Willis Construction

Willis Construction was formed in 1986 and has developed a strong reputation as a skilled and trusted building contractor for all of its core services of new build, major refurbishments and planned maintenance.
Due to on-going successes with planned maintenance frameworks, Willis Construction is recruiting a motivated painting and decorating apprentice to work on a range of projects for a number of its housing association clients. The successful candidate will commence with the company in May 2012 gaining experience ready to enrol in Cardiff Construction College in September.

Eligibility

Are you:
* looking to become fully qualified in the painting and decorating trade?
* a motivated, enthusiastic team player looking for a rewarding career with a company named on the National Apprenticeship Service’s roll of honor?
* looking for a full time (8am-4.30pm) paid position that meets apprenticeship national minimum wage -£2.60 p/h for 16-19yrs old, £4.98 p/h for 20-21 yrs old and £6.08 for aged over 21.
* able to start in post ASAP?

Do you have:
* at least three A-C grade GSSE’s (including English and Maths)? (essential)
* a full clean UK driving license? (essential)
* a valid CSCS card? (desirable)


If the answer is YES to all of the above, please email your CV to
Clare Parry cparry@uwha.co.uk by 20th April 2012.


Clare-Integrate

Targeted recruitment and training with Holbrook Homes Ltd

Family-run business based in Bridgend, South Wales, Holbrook Homes Ltd have actively embraced targeted recruitment and training, through the development of their staff.
Former sub-contractor Aran Burman from the Rhondda Valley initially started with Holbrook nearly a decade ago as a carpenter and was offered a position working directly for the business in October 2010. As a result of Holbrook securing the Briton Ferry contract with Costal Housing Group, Director Steve James was able to develop Aran to trainee site manager. To date Holbrook has enrolled Aran on several training courses, including the CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme, First Aid at Work training and Appointed Person, Banksman and Slinger for crane lifting operations.
Catching up with Aran on one of Coastal Housing Group’s housing development sites on Briton Ferry Road in Neath Port Talbot, he expressed his gratitude towards the contractor’s efforts in facilitating his career progression. “Working with a number of site managers over the years, I have always been fascinated with the pivotal role site management plays and considered it a natural step in my career development. Holbrook has supported my progression, without which I potentially could have been working on the tools till my retirement, not an ideal situation. I am really enjoying managing a number of properties on the development, building up my portfolio with a range of experiences.”
Trainee Site Manager Aran has been given the responsibility of managing a number of the two bed terraced houses on the 25 property development, which also includes a newly built Advice Centre. The development is a mix of two bedroom four person houses, two apartment blocks, with associated parking and garden areas.
The site which fronts onto Briton Ferry Road was previously a row of derelict and dilapidated properties, mainly shops, with rear yards which were disused and in poor condition.

Clare-Integrate

Six Apprenticeships Sustained in Neath Port Talbot!

Pennant Homes and Seven Oaks Joinery Ltd have committed to targeted training and recruitment during the construction of their exciting new Parc y Dderwen housing development. As part of their commitment to targeted training and recruitment, Seven Oaks will be sustaining six apprentices, in four different trades; carpentry, plumbing, painting and decorating and bricklaying. In addition, Severn Oaks will be participating in a local community project, including the donation of both time and materials.
Highly skilled and qualified apprentices are vital to making Welsh business more competitive and helping the economy grow. Seven Oaks efforts in providing a wide range of opportunities during the construction of the development has demonstrated an active commitment to local communities. Contracts Manager Malcolm Thomas commented, "Apprenticeships are the lifeblood of the industry offering an invaluable step into a career for young people as well as benefiting companies in a number of ways. We have always been committed to employing local people and local companies sub contracting works packages.”
Phase one of the three-phased development which started in October 2011, consists of 23 housing units, in addition to a timber bat house to relocate bats currently roosting in the old college building. Situated on the site of the former Cwmtawe college, the attractive development will comprise of a mix of property types, ranging from 2-bedroom bungalows to 3-bedroom townhouses. Properties will benefit from great views over Pontardawe and the surrounding countryside as the land slopes down to the south, with a number of large plateaus. All the homes benefit from dedicated parking spaces and gardens, with a number of mature oak trees retained on site, giving the development its name, which translates as Oak Park.

Above: Site entrance; March 2012


Above: The surrounding countryside provides panoramic views and a wealth of natural amenities, adding to the quality of life of dwellers; March 2012
Above: Parc y Dderwen site plan

Become a follower of the blog to receive an email informing you of site updates and photos posted

Clare-Integrate

Exciting new office, exciting new apprenticeship!

Leading construction, services and property group Kier, have offered yet another apprenticeship as part of their commitment to community investment.

David Llewllyn from Cardiff has been offered a three year carpentry apprenticeship with Kier, joining the UWHA Cardiff office renovation team, for his first project. David impressed the team during a work trial day, helping to fit a kitchen at UWHA’s Adamscourt residence to a high standard. Construction Design Manager Tyrone Feeley commented, ‘David really shone during his work trial, he demonstrated a wide range of skills and a commitment to learning, so we are delighted to welcome him to the team.’

David will be working alongside the team, to create a new office which will provide a bespoke staff, tenant and community facility that reflects the high quality environment provided at UWHA head office Y Borth. The development will make a positive and long-term commitment to the re-generation of the local area and ensure UWHA maintains a high quality profile in the principality. With an anticipated completion being the summer of 2012, David is looking forward to getting started on site towards the end of the month.

Above: Tyrone and Alan

Currently working on site

David will be the third apprentice with Kier engaged in Integrate’s targeted training and recruitment project. To keep up to date on the progress of the new Cardiff office and to find out how David is settling in onsite, remember to bookmark the blog as a favorite on your tool bar and come back soon!

Clare-Integrate

Welsh housing consortium Integrate launch trainee recognition awards

Welsh housing consortium Integrate launch trainee recognition awards

An awards scheme to recognise the achievements of apprentices and trainees has been launched by Integrate – a consortium of seven Welsh housing associations and national property services provider, Apollo,

The placements or trainees will be taking part in the housing associations’ targeted recruitment and training schemes (TR & T) delivered by the Integrate consortium. These schemes aim to lever employment and training opportunities from planned development contracts and support local people back into work.

The ‘Recognition Awards‘ will be given to trainees working for any member of the consortium or its contractors, in recognition of their commitment to progression. This might include excellent attendance, positive attitude or perhaps going that extra mile in the course of their work.

The recognition awards, which can be given any time during their placement, will reward trainees with incentives to help reduce barriers to work, and which will further facilitate their journey into employment or training. This might include help towards the purchase of driving lessons, work wear, tools or bus and rail passes.

Michelle Smith Project Manager with Integrate said; “These awards are a great way to acknowledge progression; with the result further helping to break any potential barriers to the participants continuing to pursue employment. We are looking forward to working with Apollo and to celebrating with trainees.”

Integrate and Apollo welcomes nominations from all contractors working within the consortium who are currently hosting an apprentice or trainee.

Apollo’s Regional Director for Wales, Daren Moseley, added: “Apollo has always been a great advocate of apprenticeships and training, and these new Recognition Awards provide a new way of ensuring that apprentices or trainees are rewarded for their hard work and given extra motivation to develop within their roles. The incentives given will also give the trainees practical help to allow people to progress further in their roles.”

For further information, please contact Clare Parry, Integrate Project Coordinator, on 07554 415846 or email cparry@uwha.co.uk

Clare-Integrate

Another year, another successful charity bike ride with thanks to sponsors A S Wellington Property Services!

Every year Shelter Cymru organise a charity bike ride from Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, raising key funds to support their vision that everyone is entitled to a decent home in Wales. Covering 370 miles in just 4 days, over £25,000 was raised for Shelter Cymru, with each cyclist raising in excess of £1,500!

A S Wellington generously donated a number of personalised cyclist jackets for participants to wear during the ride. First tenors Wyn Davies and Ben Smith from the Welsh choir Only Men Aloud, set off from the Millennium Stadium alongside 13 men and women aged 20 to 62, all sporting the bright red jacket. Managing Director of AS Wellington Property Services Anthony Thomas commented, “We are really pleased to be supporting the riders during this years bike ride. Its great to be involved in raising funds for such a worth cause that provides services to people in housing need across Wales.”

Clare-Integrate

Exciting new eco housing development in Penarth!

Elfed Avenue, Penarth
Newydd Housing Association & Leadbitter Homes

Newydd Housing Association and Leadbitter Homes are currently in the process of constructing an exciting new eco friendly development in Elfed Avenue, Penarth. The residential development consisting of four town houses, each with four bedrooms will be available for social rent via Homes4U. Built to Code for Sustainable Homes level 5, the development is one of just a few selected housing developments that will provide a number of sustainable homes across Wales as part of a unique pilot project by the Welsh Government.
Paul Roberts, Chief Executive of Newydd, said: “This is a flagship scheme that will showcase the latest eco friendly technology available. We look forward to offering these homes for rent.” Newydd has incorporated some of the latest available eco friendly technologies into development plans. These new homes will include photovoltaic panels on a pitched roof, airtight construction, enhanced insulation, low energy lighting and super energy efficient boilers. Tenants living at the Elfed Avenue development will not only contribute to environmental sustainability, but may also gain financial benefits. The energy efficient boilers and photovoltaic panels will provide low energy heating and electricity all year round which will provide financial savings when compared to more conventional heating methods.
Working in conjunction with Newydd and Leadbitter, the Integrate Targeted Training and Recruitment (TR&T) team are currently liaising with CSkills to source two Pathway to Apprenticeship (PtA) participants. The bricklaying and carpentry placements being offered by Leadbitter will provide a fantastic opportunity for two young learners to engage in valuable pre apprenticeship training. Following completion of the Elfed Avenue site, the participants will be transferred over to Leadbitter’s Albert Walk site with Taff Housing Association in Canton, Cardiff.
Make sure you stay tuned to the blog to keep updated on site progress and to meet the two successful Pathway to Apprenticeship participants, over the coming weeks! Clare-Integrate

Secretary of State visits Coastal's Urban Village Regeneration Scheme

Press Room
Secretary of State for Wales visits Swansea regeneration project
( Last Updated: 07-02-2012 )
Cheryl Gillan the Secretary of State for Wales visited the Urban Village project in the centre of Swansea last week as part of her tour of South-Wales, visiting companies, projects and initiatives that are bucking the economic trend. As part of her tour the Secretary of State spoke at length to representatives of the Midas Construction team, who are delivering this high profile scheme, Coastal Housing Group and a range of apprentices and trainees who are involved on the scheme.
The purpose of the visit focused on promoting an agenda of innovation, job creation, collaboration and lateral thinking that is helping to sustain the local Economy and return it to growth.
Coastal Housing's £25 million Urban Village is being developed in phases with a series of new courtyard spaces linking off street parking, flexible ground floor retail and commercial space, shops and offices with food and drink outlets and 76 new apartments for rent.
At the centre of the village, The Hub, Wales' first "creative cluster," - is a purpose built office block for creative commercial businesses - architects, artists, fashion designers, musicians, media professionals and leisure software designers - allowing the creative supply chain to be situated in one place in a dedicated commercial and supportive environment. These creative industries will help create a vibrant place to work, shop and live. Many of the apartments will be let to people working in the hub industries
Coastal Housing is working alongside the City and County of Swansea and the Welsh Assembly Government, with the latter providing financial help from their Strategic Regeneration Area funding programme.
Development director at Coastal, Gerraint Oakley, said: "There is already strong demand for commercial space at the creative cluster. We have got people signed up, and we can be really flexible about space and welcome enquiries from the creative and retail sectors. We also aim to create some destination shopping outlets at The Village that people will want to travel to including clothing and delicatessens etc. Gerraint added: "On the development front the scheme will have generated around 320 construction jobs and a number of apprenticeship positions over its five years duration, plus around 426 full and part-time jobs once completed."
Alan Hope the Chief Executive of the Midas Group said:"We are delighted that the Secretary of State for Wales chose to visit the Urban Village scheme. It is a highly progressive mixed use regeneration scheme that clearly shows that Affordable Housing providers like Costal Housing are alive to the idea that the future for the sector is about diversification and sustainable live work communities".
The scheme is due to be completed in Summer 2012 and the Secretary of State expressed a desire to return to the Urban Village to see it opened and fulfilling its role in the revival of the city centre community.


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Secretary of State for Wales visits Swansea ... - Midas Group
Coastal Housing's £25 million Urban Village is being developed in phases with ... Alan Hope the Chief Executive of the Midas Group said:"We are delighted that ...
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