Galliford Try supports charity in creating opportunities for young people

Two young people working with charity New Horizon, have had their careers in construction kickstarted by Galliford Try Building London and South East Commercial’s communities team.

New Horizon Youth Centre, works with young people at risk of homelessness to improve life chances through support with housing issues, as well as building life and employability skills.

Steven and Ricky were both trying to advance their careers in construction through New Horizon’s outreach efforts, but their work experience placements were lost unexpectedly . Galliford Try stepped into the breach, finding the pair alternative placements with subcontractors Briggs and Forrester Living on the Brent Cross regeneration scheme, and Alandale Logistics on Adelaide House respectively.

Both young men have thrived through their placements and have started to take the first steps towards full-time roles. Steven is due to start an electrical apprenticeship with Briggs and Forester Living in September, and until then, will remain working on the project, gaining valuable experience as an agency worker.

Ricky had begun his placement with Alandale as a general labourer and already has been selected to progress as a traffic marshal, with his training beginning next month.

Samantha Carter, Galliford Try Building London and South East Commercial’s Communities and Social Impact Co-ordinator, commented: “We were so happy to be able to help Steven and Ricky when we were approached by New Horizon, following the collapse of their previous placements. Giving entrants into our industry an opportunity to get a foothold on the ladder is vitally important to a people-orientated business like ours, and we thank Alandale Logistics and Briggs and Forrester Living for sharing those values and taking them on.”