Introduction to construction industry in Acton

Unemployed young people in the area are being offered a workshop to help them find employment in the construction industry.

Crossrail and Network Rail have linked up with local charity Action Acton will host the event on Friday 22 March, 1-4pm providing them with a range of advice and practical skills.

Around 30 unemployed 16-25 year olds will be given an introduction to the industry as well as an overview of Crossrail and the variety of jobs involved in the delivery of Europe’s largest engineering project. An apprentice will give his experiences of getting into the industry and people will be on hand to give CV and interview advice.

The workshop will be held at Network Rail’s site offices at Acton Freight Yard, helping give attendees an insight into the workings of a live site and the teamwork, communication and safety skills needed in construction.

Nearly 1,500 have taken part in one of Crossrail’s pre-employment workshops like the one at Acton so far. There are also a range of other employment and skills initiatives in place on the project including a Crossrail apprenticeship scheme, a dedicated Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy, and a job brokerage partnership with Jobcentre Plus.

The workshop forms part of Action Acton’s new initiative Youth Transitions Network (YTN), funded by the Big Lottery Fund, which aims to support young people who have recently left custody or care to find employment, training and education opportunities.

Crossrail’s Talent and Resources Director Valerie Todd said: “As well as delivering world-class new transport links for London, Crossrail has an important role to play in addressing future construction skills shortages and getting young people into the industry. The workshop in Acton will be a great chance for local young people to find out more about major construction projects like Crossrail, with a range of helpful information and advice to help them take their first steps into the industry.”

Action Acton's Chief Executive John Blackmore said: "We would like to thank Crossrail and Network Rail for putting on this workshop. Youth unemployment is a key social issue. Prolonged unemployment can be very damaging for young people. We aim to continue our partnership work with Crossrail and Network Rail so that many more young people have the opportunity for training, work experience, apprenticeships and employment in this field. We are also keen to hear from other key large and small company employers.”

To reserve a place at the workshop please contact Lydia Frempong from Action Acton on 0208 993 9605 or email ytn@actionacton.com / www.actionacton.com

14th March 2013