Josh’s journey to becoming a qualified electrician

Josh’s story is about more than becoming a qualified electrician. It’s about how the right support, hard work and determination can help someone take the next step into a new career. 

Our Electrical Improver, Josh, first joined us through the government initiative Kickstart programme, working in our Grounds Maintenance team. When that came to an end, he carried on building his skills through CleanStart, an employment programme by L&Q.  

In 2021, Josh applied for one of our electrical apprenticeships but wasn’t successful. Instead of giving up, he asked for advice on what he could do next. 

With support from our employment team and our Real Opportunities Scheme, which helps people take their next step into work or training, Josh applied again the following year. 

This time, he got the apprenticeship. And that was just the start! 

Josh completed his apprenticeship 18 months early and achieved a distinction in his final assessment. He’s now a qualified electrician, continuing to build his career with us while supporting new apprentices as they begin theirs. 

Along the way, Josh has also given something back to his community. He’s volunteered at local events, helped with community projects and shared his experiences with young people to inspire them to think about their own future. 

Natasha, Social Impact Manager from CleanStart, said: “When Josh came to us, he was at risk of losing his home, but he had one clear goal – to build a secure future for his family. He worked hard, stayed focused and never lost sight of what he wanted to achieve. Today, he’s a qualified electrician with a career he’s worked incredibly hard for, and we’re proud to have supported him along the way.” 

Rachel, Josh’s tutor at Bolton College, said: “Josh started his apprenticeship with a positive attitude and kept that all the way through. He worked hard, supported others in his class and stayed focused, even while balancing family life. Completing his apprenticeship early is a fantastic achievement and a credit to his commitment.” 

Josh shared: “My apprenticeship with Wythenshawe Community Housing Group has changed my life. I’ve had amazing support throughout my journey, and it’s helped me build my confidence as well as my skills. 

“I’m now a qualified electrician with a career I’m proud of, and I’ve had opportunities I never thought possible. One of the best parts of my job now is supporting other apprentices and helping them believe in themselves too. 

“I’m grateful to everyone who believed in me and helped me get to where I am today.” 

Josh’s story is a reminder that sometimes all it takes is the right opportunity, the right support and the determination to keep going. 

If you’re looking for support to get into work or develop your skills, visit our Help into work page to see what opportunities we have.