GOLDEN Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) tenants have been given the opportunity to secure employment.


As part of the housing group’s commitment to help tenants who face barriers find work, the ‘1st steps to trade’ programme offers them the chance to gain valuable qualifications and work experience to successfully find a career.


So far 11 residents have completed the course and in the coming months courses it will be aiming to meet their target of helping 48 people.


After the course they are supported by the trust’s employment initiatives team in skills such as CV building, mock interviews to identify any areas of improvement and then finally a guaranteed job interview with GGHT or one of its partners.


Two people have already benefited from the programme. A local garage took on Paul Snape as a mechanic and James Hill secured a role at GGHT as a labourer.


James said: “The support I have had from GGHT has been brilliant. From day one I felt more motivated. The course was enjoyable and very informative. I have no doubt that I wouldn’t have got the job without all the support I have been given by GGHT.”


GGHT employment initiatives manager, Tracey Walsh said: “We are very pleased to offer this programme to tenants. It will really boost attendee’s employability when they are looking for jobs.”


There is high demand with limited places on the ‘1st Steps to Trade’ programme and to find out more visit gght.org.uk/positivechange or call 0800 252627.