The Fence-tastic Four! | News

We’re putting up new fencing for hundreds of households. In Johnson Fold, we have four heroic local fencers helping us to finish 335 houses by next spring.

We’ve got a number of improvement and new build projects on the go, which also include onsite training and development opportunities for local people.

Helen Garry, our Partnerships Officer for Social Value, said: “When we work with contractors, we’re also interested in what we call ‘the social value’ of that arrangement. In other words, are we maximising what we get out of every pound spent by seeing that the work creates additional benefits for our communities?

“The social value of our fencing programme with our partner Casey is in creating a better environment on the estate and getting people into work along the way.

“We’re delighted that Casey have recruited four people from the Johnson Fold area to help deliver these improvements. For Mel, Kyle, Ian and Andy, that’s several months of paid employment, more work experience and better job prospects at the end of it. Let’s meet them.”

Mel Smith, 31, said: “I’d been volunteering at Johnson Fold UCAN Centre after struggling to find work after having my little girl, which was nine years ago now. So, I jumped at the chance when a full time paid placement as a labourer came up with AGR a year ago. I liked the idea of doing something different too.

“That turned into a position with Casey on the current fencing programme. Digging holes, constructing fences, unloading vans and cleaning-up, we do the lot and in all weathers.

“I’m the only girl on site but I really like what I do. The best bit is that we switch around so that every day is different.”

Kyle Vickers, 21, said: “I used to go the Johnson Fold UCAN Centre to look for work. The staff said there was an opportunity for me to get on the fencing work if I wanted to go for it.

“I was buzzing when they offered me this. I’d done bits and bats of labouring before and really fancied it compared to working in warehouses, which I’d mainly done.

“I’ll be honest, I found it different and challenging at first as I was handling new tools and materials, but I picked it up quickly with the help of the lads on site. I really enjoy it and feel like I’m getting valuable experience for my future.”

Ian Smith, 40, said: “It’s hard graft but that’s what I like.

“I was a fabricator but there wasn’t much out there for me. So, I found myself unemployed. Thankfully, it was only for six weeks. I’d be the first in the UCAN centre and the last one to leave. I was constantly searching for jobs and using the computers. I drank so much tea!

“Two years ago, Bolton at Home hooked me up with another contractor, AGR, and I’ve gone from there to Casey - who I’ve been working with for four months now.

“I’ve met so many new people in that time - within the companies and local tenants - and I love working outside.”

Andy Knowles, 23, said: “I was already in a job but I didn’t want to be cooped-up in a warehouse.

“I already knew Kyle and was keen to get on here. I tried my luck and an opportunity was open. So, I applied, interviewed and here I am.

“I’ve been digging holes for fence posts and putting up panels already. I’m making a difference to my life and people on the estate. It all feels very worthwhile.”