Last Autumn, Torus Foundation was able to help Group partner HMS, recruit 30 new apprentices as part of their team working across Torus communities.
Apprentice roles that included plumbers, paint and decorators, joiners, surveyors and more, proved extremely popular with hundreds of people showing interest in potential career prospects with HMS.
Many Torus tenants and residents were keen to get involved and the Foundation was able to help strengthen their application by working with people to make sure CVs were up to date and shared interview techniques.
One of those successful candidates, was Torus tenant Mike, who was looking for a career change. After working on European coaches for many years, he felt he was missing out on time with family life.
Through an agency role, Mike began working alongside HMS, helping to make improvements to Torus’ void properties and while waiting for a chance to become a member of HMS, the apprentice opportunities opened up.
As a Torus tenant, Mike made use of the free support available from Torus Foundation and after being linked up with one of the Employment and Skills Advisors, Annie, together they went through each step needed to make his application stand out and secure one of the roles. Support included help to build confidence, make sure his CV was relevant and up to date, along with tips to give a good impression in his interview.
Mike explains,
“I knew I had to work hard to secure one of the apprentice roles as once my foot was in the door with HMS, it could open up my career development. Since being with HMS it’s been great for my family with a work life balance.
“Talking to Torus Foundation made it feel like I was talking to someone I knew, Annie and the team made it a friendly environment where I felt invited, even at 40. Do not let your age hold you back!
“Annie encouraged me to apply for as many of the different apprentice roles I wanted to take further and I was over the moon to get the chance to be part of the team.
Mike started on damp and mould work, helping with house clearances and is now working on the various painting and decorating jobs needed across Torus homes. Since becoming one of the apprentices, Mike has surprised himself by the number of skills he has picked up.
Mike adds,
“I’m really enjoying the camaraderie here at HMS and the painting has been therapeutic even though it’s work. I’m proud to see the difference my work is making to the homes, knowing that I’m helping them look good for the new tenants to start their new home in somewhere that’s well presented for them. As me and my family are Torus tenants, we have had work done by HMS and I know the importance of doing a decent job.
Sandra Camello, Responsive Repairs Team Manager at HMS adds,
“Michael has done really well since starting his apprenticeship. He’s already proven himself to be a great team member and is showing to be very supportive of other operatives.”
Annie, Employment and Skills Advisor is delighted with Mike’s progress and said,
“I was over the moon to know Mike was successful in starting his career with HMS. With just a little guidance, Mike was able to realise his potential and I know he’s going to do great and inspire others living in Torus communities that not only could you live in our homes, but become part of our wider team and help make a difference to others.”
Mike ends by reminding people of the wider support available,
“Annie and Torus Foundation have been to help with all sorts, even checking in to see if as a family whether we need other wrap around support. It’s good to know that if that additional help was needed, that a network of support is on hand.”
If you live in a Torus community and looking for support to help you build skills and confidence to return to work and change careers, see what opportunities are available through Torus Foundation:
Click here for Employment and Skills support
In addition to employment and skills support, Torus Foundation can help Torus communities who may be struggling to manage money or have benefit queries, look at what help is available for those looking to improve their health and wellbeing, and more.
Find out more by contacting the team today:
0300 123 5809 (option 2) / info@torusfoundation.org.uk