25 July 2008

Southway Housing Trust are a not-for-profit landlord managing and improving almost 6,000 homes in South Manchester, but Southway is about more than just improving tenants’ homes. One of their main aims is to make sure that local residents get their share of training and job opportunities.

As a local resident, Abdallah has benefitted from the opportunity and has gained a joinery apprenticeship with one of Southway Housings’ construction partners, The Lord Group.

Abdallah initially had wanted to be a plumber but found that the joinery was much more interesting and says “I’m really glad I chose this trade, I enjoy every part of the job from working with the fitters to helping the residents put back their furniture when the job is done and making sure that they are happy, it’s all part of the job”. Ab’s says he has met some really nice people, especially the team he has worked closely with who have mentored him, helped and supported him every step of the way. Abs now considers them more friends than colleagues and wouldn’t hesitate to call them if he ever needed anything.

Contracts Director for The Lord Group, Bob Kershaw added “Since joining The Lord Group in November 2007, Abdallah has displayed a positive and professional attitude to all the team (pictured, top right hand corner) and more importantly, our client Southway Housing Trust and all the residents on the Old Moat Window replacement scheme. His approach to team working has been exemplary and we all wish him a long and prosperous future working with The Lord Group”.

Ab’s has certainly become a very valuable member of the team who has proved himself very popular with the residents. Mrs Tolten from Withington commented “the young apprentice was very polite and a hard worker, I’m very pleased” and Mrs Worthington, also from Withington said “What a great lad, very helpful and well mannered”.

Ab’s training was provided by Skills Solutions in Openshaw, who work in conjunction with MANCAT. Skills Solutions will provide training in Carpentry & Joinery to NVQ Level II standard and MANCAT will deliver the training required to gain the ICA (Intermediate Construction Award).