A WORK placement at the Carnival Pool car park in Wokingham town centre has seen one young Woodley resident take his first steps into the construction business.
Martin Kimber, who has high-functioning autism, took part in a work placement on the project for two weeks with Balfour Beatty after completing his Construction Skills Certification Scheme Training at Reading College.
The placement, which was arranged by the Elevate Hub in partnership with Mencap and Balfour Beatty, has given Martin the hands-on experience he needs to start his career in the industry.
During the placement Martin asked if he could gain an insight into the industry and learn about the different stages involved in the multi-storey car park project. He was also had a chance to join various meetings with the project management team, work closely with the health and safety advisors and was able to help with site documents to better his knowledge and experience in the industry.
Andy Granata, Mencap employment coordinator, said: “Martin is made-up and extremely happy to be able to be involved. He has been a client of ours for a few months and has embraced new challenges with great confidence.
“I hope it can lead him to his next step, and eventually a paid job which he is so ready for. The support he has been offered by Balfour Beatty has been excellent and he has really been made part of the team.”
Cllr Mark Ashwell, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for planning and regeneration, said: “It is great to hear Martin’s placement proved so successful. I wish him all the best and look forward to seeing more people take advantage of the opportunities being offered by the Wokingham town centre regeneration project.”
To find out more on Mencap’s employment service follow them on Twitter at @employmereading or @mencapemployme.
