TWELVE people from across Barry were recently given a boost into construction following a free course organised by Newydd Housing Association and Barry Communities First.

Participants on the course, who were referred from the Job Centre, have passed the accredited Construction Skills Certification Scheme course providing them with a CSCS card, essential for employment in the industry, with more participants taking the final exam in the coming weeks.

The week long course was funded by Jehu Project Services as part of their commitment to support local employment during the development of 19 new homes in St Athan, donating over £6000 to support the local community.

The course included health and safety practice, information sessions and mock exams to help prepare them for work in the construction industry.

Michelle Connell, the only woman to participate in the course, said: “I heard about the course through a friend. I’m unemployed but have six children and I just want to be able to do something for them and look after my kids.”

Michelle, and others who passed the course, are now working with Newydd staff on writing CVs and applying for jobs.

Marc Jehu, Managing Director of Construction at Jehu Project Services Limited said: “We were delighted to support this initiative as part of our commitment to supporting the local communities in the Vale of Glamorgan.

"We hope that the skills and qualifications gained by the participants will be a platform to help them find long term employment opportunities in the construction industry.”

Further courses open to men and women may be available in the future. To express an interest please contact Jackie Holly by emailing jackie.holly@newydd.co.uk or call 02920 005476.