​Leyland has helped a group of unemployed teenagers take the next step towards a brighter future.

Leyland has partnered with Barnardo’s and its Building Hope Academy to offer six young people 30 hours of work experience at its Streatham and Dulwich stores.

Furthermore, Leyland has also provided around £6,000 worth of products for teenagers to use during their Construction Skills training.

The Building Hope Academy is designed for young people aged between 16 and 24 with an Educational Health Care Plan, who are not in education, employment or training.

Rebecca Knowles, Children’s Services Manager at The Building Hope Academy, said: “We are so grateful to Leyland for their support, not only in offering six of our learners work placements but also for their generous donation of products.

“We work with young people who tend to be furthest away from the labour market, many of whom have complex needs and situations. 

“We’re backed by a range of employers who support our learners with placements, workshops and CV writing skills.

“Our six learners have really enjoyed their time with Leyland. For many of them, it was their first experience in the workplace and will really increase their confidence.”

The materials provided by Leyland include plasterboard, electrical items and painting equipment.

“It’s pretty much everything we need for an entire year of training,” said Rebecca.

Martin Hastings, CEO at Leyland, said the company was delighted to help the Building Hope Academy.

He said: “This is an excellent project and we have really enjoyed having the young people in Streatham and Dulwich. I know they have found the experience valuable.

“We were keen to help the charity further so decided to donate a wide range of materials that will improve their practical lessons no end.

“Giving back to the local community and helping people better themselves is a key part of our ethos.”

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