Simon ‘Signs up for Success’ with the Swans
After leaving the Armed Forces Simon Martin faced significant barriers to finding employment which were made worse by the ongoing pandemic. However thanks to Swansea City Community Trust’s ‘Sign Up to Success’ employability programme he has a new career in the construction industry.
Simon enrolled onto the Swans employability program during the Autumn of 2020 as the Covid 19 pandemic eased slightly, The community Trust’s employability Tutor and Health and Wellbeing officer worked alongside Simon to initially identify goals and develop an action plan to achieve them within the project. Supported by the Trust’s team, Simon worked through the action plan, overcame personal barriers, increased his confidence and his aspiration levels. Through the course Simon also developed skills and knowledge for the construction industry whilst also successfully completing construction qualifications, obtaining a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
Supported by the Trust’s team, Simon developed and worked through an action plan, overcame personal barriers, increased his confidence and his aspiration levels. Through the course Simon also developed skills and knowledge for the construction industry whilst also successfully completing construction qualifications, obtaining a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
The programme provided Simon with the skills & knowledge to be successful at interview and secure employment with Tai Tarian housing association.
Joseph Kenington Team Leader the Tai Tarian team said “He’s helping spread his knowledge to other members of the team. There’s been a big change, where instead of doing everything himself, he’s helping the other guys to learn and adapt as well. His confidence has certainly grown as well.
The programme has given Simon the opportunity to develop his career whilst providing a platform to share is knowledge and skills that he has built throughout his career.
Simon said “The Trust supported us with a CSCS card and have been in contact throughout. It’s benefitted me having my CSCS card and getting involved with Tai Tarian. Hopefully, it’s a good step in the long run towards full-time employment – whether it’s through engaging with Tai Tarian or other contractors further down the line. Hopefully, the future is bright.” Simon Martin.
The Trust continued to work with Tai Tarian as part of ‘in work support’ and all participants, in particular Simon, are progressing well within their roles.
Kris Jordan, Swansea City Community Trust’s Director of Business Development. said “Given the significant economic challenges the pandemic has presented to individuals, businesses and communities, we were very pleased to support Simon on his journey back to employment. Through raising confidence, aspirations coupled with providing real-life essential work-based qualifications we hope our programme provided Simon with the necessary tools to succeed in the construction industry”
