P.P. O’Connor partners to recruit local talent

From job hunting to building a new career, Wythenshawe local Callum is now working in construction with local contractor, P.P. O’Connor, after getting support from our Real Opportunities team.

Callum had been out of work for six months and was finding it tough to get back into work. Now, he’s started a new career in construction thanks to support from our Real Opportunities team and P.P. O’Connor.

The 21-year-old knew he wanted to work in construction, so he took the first step himself by completing his Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) course. This is a training programme designed to provide workers with the essential health and safety knowledge required to safely work on construction sites.

When a job opportunity came up through our Real Opportunities jobs bulletin, our Employment Co-ordinator, Poppi, worked with Callum to help him get ready. Together, they updated his CV, prepared for his interview and made sure he felt confident before meeting the team at P.P. O’Connor.

And it paid off! Callum impressed at interview and was offered a full-time job as a labourer on the Brotherton House demolition project, where new social homes will be built as part of the Wythenshawe town centre regeneration.

Even though he hadn’t worked in construction before, P.P. O’Connor saw what he could bring to the role and is giving him the training and support he needs to build his skills.

Callum said: “I really enjoy working on site. I like how busy it is and the days fly by. I’m really pleased I found the job through Real Opportunities and I’m grateful to Poppi for helping me with my CV and getting me ready for my interview. I was out of work for about six months and was struggling to find a job. I’m really happy to now be working in construction with P.P. O’Connor after getting my CSCS card.”

Our Real Opportunities programme is here to help you take your next step, whether that’s finding work, building new skills or exploring your options. We can help you with CV, job applications and interview prep, finding training courses, work experience and more.

If you’re looking for support to get into work or training, we’d love to help! You can find out more on our Help into Work page.