A new housing scheme in Washington, being built to suit the lifestyles of older people, is also transforming the lives of the younger generation by providing training and apprentice opportunities.

One of them, Andrew McPherson, an apprentice electrician working for McNally & Thompson UK Contracts Ltd, was delighted when the opportunity came along.

Andrew said “I started off on a work experience placement with McNally & Thompson UK Contracts Ltd and then applied for the position of apprentice electrician. I have been working on the Willow Brook site since work started on duties such as installing cable baskets, running cables and connecting light points in the ceiling voids ready for the installation of light fittings.  I know that the experience I have gained on this apprenticeship will put me on course to become a very good electrician”.

Willow Brook, a new development of extra care housing for the over 55s in Washington, is being delivered by Riverside, one of the leading social housing regeneration organisations in the UK.

Councillor John Kelly, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture said “Sunderland City Council and Riverside have worked really well together on this development and we support the work and the training opportunities this project has given to local people”.

The £8.8 million scheme was funded by Riverside along with the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), which is the Government funding body for housing.  Due for completion in May, it is being constructed by Galliford Try Partnerships North and has created 8 apprenticeships and numerous other training opportunities with contractors and suppliers.

Sally Nicholson, Riverside’s Regional Operations Manager, said: “Creating and supporting apprenticeships has underpinned our development at Willow Brook and further opportunities will be delivered as part of our plans for an onsite beauty salon and restaurant for residents. 

“As a company, we have made a pledge to maximise opportunities for employment learning by establishing a programme of apprenticeships for tenants, creating 20 placements each year within Riverside and encouraging additional opportunities through our contractors. I am delighted that this support is helping local people like Andrew here in Washington, to gain valuable experience.”

Housing Minister Brandon Lewis said:  “The number of new homes is up 25% in the last year with the country building again and delivering the homes the nation wants.

“I am delighted to see that Riverside is placing such high importance on bringing new people into construction and actively supporting the growth of a home grown and ambitious workforce to support house building not only now, but in the future.”

Keith Wright, Galliford Try’s Operations Manager, said: “The project has offered opportunities to bricklaying, electrical, mechanical, decorating and scaffolding apprentices and they have worked alongside trained professionals to see for themselves what is required to bring a large scale building project to completion.

“It is fantastic that Riverside, like us, place such a high importance on bringing new people into the construction sector and are actively supporting the growth of a motivated, skilled, qualified and talented workforce.”