Specialist recruitment and training provider, Bluestones Staffing NI has launched a programme to help the unemployed back into work and combat the logistics driver shortage in Northern Ireland.
Bluestones Staffing NI has partnered with Lemis + Belfast Works to bring a fully funded training programme to Greater Belfast, giving the unemployed and those working less than 16 hours a week the opportunity to train and work as LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) drivers.
The programme, which is funded by Lemis + Belfast Works, is an end to end employer-led training solution designed to address the industry shortage of LGV drivers whilst increasing employment opportunities within the Belfast area.
Successful applicants to the programme will take part in exciting driver training, learning all the practical and theoretical skills necessary to start a rewarding career in logistics. The training, which can cost up to £5000 a driver, will provide trainees with a full LGV Licence, Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and a guaranteed job with one of Bluestones Staffing’s employment partners.
Bluestones Staffing NI Director, Kieran Allmark, said, “The transportation industry is the lifeblood of any economy and the driver shortage, if not addressed, will directly impact the country’s economy. By introducing this exciting programme we’re giving individuals who are seeking permanent employment the opportunity to pursue a career where they can earn up to £500 a week, whilst strengthening an industry that puts food on our tables and clothes on our backs.
“As a locally owned recruitment and training provider, we wanted to work with other local organisations like Lemis + Belfast Works to address the economic needs that are right on our doorstep.”
Debbie McDermott, Bluestones Staffing NI Director, added, “This is a fantastic opportunity for our clients to avail of a highly motivated workforce in an area of skills-shortage. If you are currently seeking a solution to a shortage of drivers in your business, please get in touch so that we can explore options to integrate any training which may be bespoke to your operation, into the programme. With drivers being available on a variety of terms coming into the peak period we are delighted to be able to offer an exclusive solution for distribution operations in Northern Ireland.”
Applicants to the programme must meet the following criteria: unemployed, working less than 16 hours per week, economically inactive, applicants must be over 21, applicants must hold a full car (class B driving license) as a minimum and applicants must also be resident in a Belfast City Council Ward and this can be checked by postcode: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council. Training will take place throughout August – October 2018.
Bluestones Staffing and Lemis + Belfast Works are holding two Open Days on Thursday 5th July, 10am – 1pm at Ashton Community Trust, 683 Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 4EG and Friday 6th July 11am – 2pm at Bluestones Staffing’s office 11 Colvin House, Inspire Business Centre, Carrowreagh Road, Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1QT for individuals who would like to find out more about the programme.