Employing local labour is often a requirement under Section 106 planning conditions, to ensure that communities benefit from the employment opportunities created by large construction projects. Taking on local apprentices also helps to upskill the local workforce, giving young people the chance to forge a career and benefitting the construction industry by providing a pipeline of new talent.

So when Brown & Carroll were appointed to complete the joinery package for the iconic Centre Point building in London, we worked with labour agency K10 and Camden Council to source suitable apprentice candidates from NW5, eventually selecting 21 year old Liam Lewis for the role.

From the very beginning Liam quickly found his feet, fitting in well with the Brown & Carroll Centre Point site team. He eagerly took on board all the instruction and guidance he was given by his mentor, Dave Seymour, ensuring his steady progress and long term potential were brought to the attention of B&C Project Manager, Gerald Harris.

Realising that he could become a very effective and worthwhile addition to the company on a long term basis, we subsequently offered Liam the opportunity to join Brown & Carroll permanently, once the original project completed – which he did at the start of 2018.

We are delighted that Liam has proved such a success, continuing to improve his joinery skills while studying for an NVQ within our own apprenticeship programme. He displays all the attributes of becoming a competent and highly skilled carpenter and is a perfect example of the Section 106 ideal in action.

Mike Pearson, Senior QUESH Manager and apprenticeship scheme mentor says:

“I am pleased to have had the opportunity to give Liam the chance to pursue his chosen career and look forward to seeing him continue to flourish within the Brown & Carroll Apprenticeship Programme.”