SIG Roofing is supporting 11 apprentices through the Re:allies Framework, an initiative which helps people find training and employment in their local communities.

The roofing merchant has provided starter toolkits and ongoing training and mentoring to support 11 apprentices as well as sponsoring three of these apprentices who, due to SIG’s support, have overcome barriers and now gained employment for construction companies on the Procure Plus Framework.

Kieren Stevenson (pictured), Samuel Howarth and Megan Boygle have been recruited through Re:vision (a subsidiary charity of Procure Plus Holdings), supported by its partnership with local employment groups in the north: Newground, Achieve and Women and Manual Trades.

Stevenson is a roofing apprentice with Connolly Ltd working to improve properties for Flintshire Council through the Procure Plus Framework. Stevenson had always wanted to be a roofer but struggled to secure a training course due to his dyslexia.

Howarth was introduced to Re:vision by Newground, who have been working with him to improve his employability skills. Howarth had short-term employment previously but found himself laid off when a contract finished. With previous experience of working in construction and engineering, he was very keen to get back into employment. Following an interview with WRPS, Howarth was excited to be given an opportunity to complete a work trial for an apprentice roofer position. During the work trial Howarth impressed the site manager with his enthusiasm and commitment.

Boygle could not find an apprenticeship opportunity, so went to college hoping that they would help her find an employer while she started training. After completing a Carpentry & Joinery Diploma, Boygle was still unable to secure an apprenticeship and complete the qualification. The rejections from some companies had a negative effect on her confidence. Boygle sought support from the charity Women and Manual Trades.

Re:vision has worked with local training providers and has arranged for Boygle to be signed up to complete the carpentry & joinery apprenticeship and she is refining her skills. Boygle is working as part of the team from Emanuel Whittaker who are improving the housing stock of Salix Homes.