10,000-brick donation supports new wave of construction workers

A MAJOR housebuilder has donated enough bricks to build a large three-bedroom home to support the next generation of construction workers.

Lakes College received 10,000 bricks from Persimmon Homes which will be used for learners’ training and assessment.

Chris Nattress, principal of Lakes College, received the donation in the company of Councillor Mark Fryer, leader of the new Cumberland Council, representatives of Persimmon Homes and some of the college’s construction apprentices.

He said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Persimmon Homes and are thrilled with their very kind donation of bricks to support our construction students and apprentices.

“Partnerships with key employers in the construction industry are vital to the work we do in developing the diverse talent construction in Cumbria needs and generous donations such as this are an important part of helping develop the stars of the future.”

Coun Fryer added: “Lakes College have a fantastic history of turning our young people into the construction workforce of the future.

“That future seems stronger than ever with the new developments on the civil side and partnerships with the private sector such as this.”

John Roocroft, regional managing director for Persimmon Homes Lancashire & Scotland, added: “With the need for new housing well documented, we know how important it is to support construction students and help develop a diverse, talented workforce for the years ahead.

“We are particularly proud of our links to local colleges and helping young people across the region to develop the skills they need to pursue one of the many exciting careers that housebuilding has to offer.

“Attracting young people from all backgrounds is absolutely vital to make up for those retiring from the industry.

“That is why we continue to build upon the 400-plus apprentices and trainees we currently have across the group and launched our Target 50 initiative to take on another 50 female apprentices and technical trainees in construction-facing roles this year.”

Mark Jenkinson, MP for Workington said: “It is great to see our education providers working with business.

“It is important that training providers are providing the skilled workforce that is required locally.

“This engagement with business will ensure that our local skills needs are met and our local economy is strengthened.”