A Durham landlord has helped two local people back into work through its apprenticeship scheme. Durham City Homes, as part of County Durham Housing Group, has recruited Melanie Spedding, 47, and Katy Richardson, 33, as Business Administration Apprentices as part of its commitment to creating employment opportunities in the north east.
Tenant Melanie became aware and applied for the role after years of volunteering for the city centre landlord.
She said: “I was a full-time carer and found that volunteering helped to increase my confidence and skills.
“Understanding the organisation from a customer’s perspective, I am now looking forward to learning all about the operational side of the housing world.”
Katy, a mum of three from Bishop Auckland, previously worked in retail but wanted to move to a career within an office environment.
She is now based with Durham City Homes’ Assets Team and said: “I’d always wanted to secure an administrative role, but found it difficult to make the transition without the relevant experience.
“This apprenticeship is perfect as I am gaining an insight into all areas of the business.”
Simon Bartlett, Durham City Homes’ Managing Director, is delighted to be able to give local people these types of opportunities.
He said: “Our four previous apprentices have gone on to progress into further employment or training, so as an employer it’s fantastic to be able to help to change people’s lives.”
“Durham City Homes, together with Dale & Valley Homes and East Durham Homes, became landlords to a combined sum of 18,400 homes, following the transfer of ownership and management from Durham County Council in April of this year.
As part of its promise to tenants, who voted in favour of transfer and the creation of County Durham Housing Group, the three landlords are committed to creating both apprenticeship programmes and training opportunities for local people.
For more information visit www.durhamcityhomes.co.uk