NEAT landscape work aims to unlock jobs

Adil Naveed, Zak Kirby, Phillip Howarth, Matthew Cheetham and Dave Parker (NEAT Supervisor from Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale)

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Five ground workers from Rochdale are hoping that their new skills, qualifications and work experience will help to secure full time jobs.

The five Rochdale residents have recently completed the Neighbourhood Environment Action Team (NEAT), a 12-month employed training programme run by Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale in partnership with Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH).

Recent participant Adil Naveed, aged 33 and from Rochdale, said: “Working on the NEAT team I learnt a lot of skills, gained experience and increased my knowledge from really good supervisors. I also gained some useful qualifications.”

Participant Zak Kirby, aged 21 and from Rochdale, added: “It has been the best year of my life working for Groundwork. The people and the place will always be special to me.”

This training programme sees local learners putting their skills into action on a range of public space enhancements throughout Rochdale.

The team has completed projects at The Heath and The Downs play areas, block paving work at Ashworth Street, Lower Falinge and the redevelopment of land surrounding the shops on Drake Road, north of Littleborough.

Andrew Toft, RBH Director of Services for Neighbourhoods, said: “The benefits for the young people involved in this project are clear, and RBH is proud to play a part in helping them achieve their aims.

"The work carried out in local areas also provides benefit to the wider community, and it is much appreciated by local residents.”

During the 12 month programme each participant has gained work experience on a wide range of hard landscaping projects including brick-work, flagging, site drainage, levels and kerbing. The trainees also acquired their Emergency First Aid Certificate and NVQ Level 2 qualification in Construction Operations.

Phil Treaton, Land & Design Manager at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, said: “We’re delighted with the development of these five individuals and the quality of work they have completed on behalf of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing.

"We’re keen to help all of our participants on to the next stage of their career and are calling on local employers in construction, landscaping and housing to come forward and support these skilled and motivated individuals.”