Opportunities with Experience CIC
Tackling challenges in the construction industry
Courses for unemployed/inexperienced vulnerable women who wish to consider working in the construction industry manual trades, with an emphasis on interior decoration.
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About the project
Opportunities with Experience CIC in Gravesham focus on tackling challenges in the construction industry, such as the skill shortages and looking at ways to diversify the workforce. They exist to tackle low attainment of young women, including mums with educational disadvantage who wish to consider working in the construction industry manual trades, with an emphasis on interior decoration.
Funding allowed them to offer courses to unemployed/inexperienced vulnerable women living in social housing and receiving benefits to help them gain life skills, find employment, and enable them to improve their living conditions.
During the course, the women learn the practical task of washing down, sanding, prepping, filling, painting and tiling. They completed the health and safety awareness qualification to receive a CSCS green card. The women completed work experience at Walk Tall, had the opportunity to talk to employers and were presented with a certificate of achievement.
The project had a direct impact on their self-confidence and helped them develop an aspiration for the future.
Feedback from beneficiaries
One learner said she had therapy but felt that doing the painting was better than any therapy ever had, another said she hated her house, it was full of holes in the walls but once she was taught how to remove wall plugs, fill and sand hole and paint she was 'buzzing' and came in next day with broader shoulders and some pride.
“I feel like I've achieved so much, I've always suffered with anxiety and I suppose just felt 'written off'. I've always had an interest in interior design and had a thought I’d love to have a go, however I was always told was told by parents this was a man’s role and not for me. Now I've completed the course, passed and got the card - it’s amazing. It’s been really empowering. I've even been told by a few other women its inspirational what I've achieved and they would like to do it. Currently I am looking for work, interior design/painting and decorating apprenticeships or something like that, it’s changed me and it feels great!” Learner
“We Love the community project. I think it is very useful for the ladies and much needed! Great for the community, the sort of community project where everybody wins.” Ann Duke, CEO, Walk Tall
