Business Director Jacqueline Brown and Project Manager Patrick Beesley attended a session at the Construction Skills Centre in Collyhurst, representing John Southworth as a Principal Contractor working on P500 Sites, as a key partner in this initiative.

The Construction Skills Centre is recognised as a Greater Manchester Skills Academy, dedicated to bridging the gap between regeneration projects and local employment. While regeneration efforts are creating new job opportunities, many local residents lack the necessary skills and qualifications to take advantage of them. This initiative aims to equip individuals from deprived areas with the training they need to secure sustainable employment in the construction industry.

The session was led by Gary Lamb, Manchester City Council and supported by Cllrs , Gavin White, Angela Harrington, Regina Khanum and Lorraine Horne

The event highlighted several valuable training opportunities available at the Centre, including:

  • Introduction to Construction – A three-week course covering fundamental construction principles, culminating in participants obtaining a CSCS green card, an essential requirement for working on construction sites.
  • Skills Bootcamp in Civil Engineering and Groundworks – A comprehensive training programme consisting of five days of classroom learning followed by four days of practical experience. Participants gain an NPORS dumper licence and a plant and machinery marshal ticket, equipping them with critical industry certifications.
  • 2-Day DIY Course for Females – A tailored course designed to encourage and support women in developing practical DIY skills, fostering confidence and opening doors to further opportunities in the construction sector.

John Southworth is proud to be involved in such a transformative initiative, ensuring that the benefits of regeneration extend directly to local communities. By supporting skills development, we are not only addressing the industry’s labour shortage but also creating meaningful employment pathways for residents of Greater Manchester. We look forward to continued collaboration with the Skills Academy and local authorities to build a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.