NEAT work on The Cray

NEAT team with Mr and Mrs Wade

Participants on a training and employment scheme are making a big impact on the lives of residents on The Cray. 

Over the past few months a team of previously unemployed young people from Rochdale, who are taking part in the Neighbourhood Environmental Action Team (NEAT), have been working hard on The Cray.

One of the jobs they have completed involved replacing on old access path to the front of several properties.

Local resident Peter Wade, aged 70, is delighted with the work. He said: “Before Groundwork came along the path was terrible. There were weeds, broken tarmac, broken fencing, moss and overhanging trees. You couldn’t walk down it and it was a bit dangerous for people using the path. Now it’s like a dream come true. There is now good wheelchair access and it is a lot better for the elderly residents and visitors. The lads have all been great, we’ve made them brews and they’ve been a good group. Thanks a lot.”

Participants on the NEAT programme, a partnership between Groundwork and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH), are given a 12-month paid contract, working on a range of landscaping projects on behalf of RBH whilst receiving on the job training.

Paul Dockerty, RBH Environmental Co-ordinator, said: “It’s really good to see how well motivated and skilled the most recent intake to the NEAT Team has become in such a short space of time. Whilst the nearby fencing on The Cray will make a difference in terms of security, the block paving that Mr. Wade has commented on really has made a significant visual enhancement.”

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

Dave Parker, NEAT Supervisor from Groundwork, said: “The lads have done a great job and are improving their skills day by day. Not only have they completed this work to a very high standard they have also made a very positive impression on the residents there. It’s a good feeling to be able to help local residents and make their lives better.”