A helping hand into the world of work

Published by kerri smith for Three Oaks Homes in Housing and also in Education

Three jobseekers have ended their search for work after being given a leg up the career ladder by a Blaby employer which is bucking the trend by expanding its workforce.

Three apprentices have joined Three Oaks Homes, a social housing provider in Blaby. Stewart Wells and Ian Lock have been appointed multi-skilled trainees and Louise Clark joins the team as a trainee administration assistant.

All three will be based with Three Oaks Property Services (TOPS), the housing association’s repairs and maintenance arm, and two of the trio live within just five miles of the depot.

Ian, aged 22, who lives in Leicester, said: “I am loving my time at Three Oaks Homes. It’s very fast paced; I feel I’ve learnt more in my first few weeks here than I have in longer periods at previous jobs.”

Ian, a former shop fitter and labourer, was unemployed for six months before beginning his six month apprenticeship with TOH. Stewart and Ian will spend the first six months learning trades such as plumbing and carpentry on the job, under the supervision of experienced colleagues. Strengths and weaknesses will be assessed and college placements will follow, subject to performance.

Louise, also 22 and of Hinckley, has joined the team as a trainee administration assistant. She has already learnt basic office skills and said: “It would be great to join Three Oaks Homes when my training comes to an end. I am really enjoying it so far.”

The positions, advertised at Jobcentre Plus and supported by the Future Jobs Fund, attracted 20 applicants. A short list of hopefuls was invited to a panel interview and whittled down to the three successful candidates.

Tony Giacobbe, who runs TOPS, was one of three on the panel to interview the applicants. He said: “Stewart, Ian and Louise will enable TOPS to consolidate the current service and, vitally, plan for future expansion and improvements. Having them on board will create greater capacity and enhance the great service tenants receive.

“Recruiting local young people shows our commitment to creating employment for the community we serve,” added Tony.

Colin Norman, chairman of Three Oaks Homes, welcomed the trio to the team. He said: “We are committed to not only providing local housing needs but actively supporting and involving the younger generation of our community. I wish all three trainees the best for their future careers.”