Strategic partnerships see South Wales talent enter the construction industry

A mum-of-four is a key part of the team in the build of a local school, just months after fearing she would struggle to get back into the construction industry.

Sarah Morgan followed her passion of working in construction after a career in retail, and she progressed rapidly including gaining her qualifications to operate site machinery.

However, the 34-year-old faced an uphill battle to re-enter the industry she loves after being let go by her former employer when she lost her driving licence.

Finding a role that was commutable and fitted in with family life proved challenging and coupled with Sarah’s concern that being away from construction for too long would mean she may never return, she was worried about not stepping on a site again.

But now, thanks to a strategic partnership, she is back in the sector and helping to deliver a key project in her local community.

Wynne Construction, which is building Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Llyn-Y-Forwyn,  employed Sarah through its collaboration with Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Work and Skills programme and recruitment provider Acorn By Synergie.

Job seekers across the county who participated in the scheme were connected to upcoming vacancies and received training and mentoring to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce.

Sarah, who was one of four taken on via the programme, said: “I’ve always been passionate about the construction industry, and after losing my driving licence, I genuinely didn’t believe I could return.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to get back into the sector, especially with a company that really values my input and has treated me like a key part of the team.

“Friends and family have all asked about the school, which is walking distance from my home, and I’m honestly so proud to have contributed to such a meaningful project in my own community.

“I have since regained my driving licence, which means when this project completes, I can potentially move to work on other developments in the region.

“To land this role is incredible, and it’s made such a massive difference to me.”

Wynne Construction site manager Dylan Richards said: “Sarah has demonstrated real tenacity to overcome the challenges she has faced, and her great people skills and dedication make her a valuable addition to the team.

“We eagerly look forward to helping her develop and flourish in future projects.”

Paula Lunnon, Wynne Construction social value manager, said: “At Wynne Construction we are wholly committed to improving the communities we work with, so seeing our efforts transform the lives of local residents is wonderful.

“With the help of our partnerships, we have created a more skilled and competitive workforce in Rhondda Cynon Taf and will continue to support people in every region we operate within to leaving a lasting legacy.”

Acorn by Synergie client development director, Lawrence Beach, said: “It’s been very rewarding to work alongside Wynne Construction and RCTCBC to develop and retain talent.

“After meeting Sarah, I recognised the importance of directing her to an employer that will hone her specialised skillsets and Wynne Construction was the perfect fit.”

Funded by UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus (CfW+), the partnerships helped fill skill shortages on-site and reduce community unemployment.

For more information, visit www.wynneconstruction.com