Category Archives: Wales

Events, News, Wales

Free Access To Many Of Wales’ Historic Landmarks This September Through Open Doors Festival

Amidst the high cost of living which has affected families all over the country, this September, visitors can enjoy hundreds of historical locations across Wales for free.

Cadw has announced the return of Open Doors this September – an annual festival which unlocks access to Wales’ most remarkable and cherished historical locations.

Throughout September, over 200 historic landmarks across Wales will offer visitors an exciting lineup of free events, guided tours, and immersive experiences – some of which have never been accessible to the public before.

The Open Doors initiative is part of the wider European Heritage Day festival – raising awareness of the richness and cultural diversity across the continent.

It will provide a unique opportunity for people of all ages to connect with the past, experience rich heritage, and uncover the captivating stories that have shaped Wales’ history.

As part of the festival, 16 of Cadw’s own epic monuments including Laugharne Castle, Denbigh Castle and Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths, will open their doors for free, encouraging visitors to explore what they have to offer.

Ffion Reynolds, Heritage & Events Manager at Cadw said: “We are excited to welcome visitors back to the many remarkable locations taking part in Open Doors, each of which has its own story to tell.

“The Open Doors event is an opportunity for us to showcase the diversity and resilience of Wales’ historic architecture in a way that’s accessible for all.  By opening these places for free, we’re hoping that everyone will have the opportunity to get a taste for our country’s rooted history and culture and become actively involved in safeguarding these locations for present and future generations.”

With so many historic landmarks to choose from, there are a thousand reasons to visit this September. Here are just some of locations taking part across Wales:

Margam Abbey and Margam Stones Museum

Visit on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September, various times

For the very first time, Margam Abbey will open its doors for free and provide guided tours as part of the festival. Its gothic architecture and tranquil surroundings will leave you in awe as you immerse yourself in centuries of history.

And on the same weekend, Cadw will be opening its Margam Stones museum – a treasure trove of over 30 ancient stone carvings dating from the early days of Christianity. Free tours of the museum will offer visitors exciting insights into the age-old relics, including the 14th century knight dressed in chain mail, and the not-to-be-missed gargoyle.

 

Tredegar House

Visit on Sunday 3rd September, 11:00-16.30

Explore one of the architectural wonders of Wales nestled amidst 90 acres of lush gardens and parkland. During the Open Doors festival, families can visit this magnificent location at the heart of Newport’s heritage, recognised as one of Britain’s most beautiful places of the 17th century.

 

Denbigh Castle

Visit on Saturday 16th September & Sunday 17th September, 10:00 – 16:00

Uncover the wonders of Denbigh Castle with Open Doors where you’ll be transported back to this pinnacle of medieval wartime with the sounds of horses and marching soldiers echoing through its walls.

 

St Davids Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace

Book in advance for 23rd, 24th, and 29th September, various times 

Ranked among the most extraordinary medieval structures in the UK, St Davids Cathedral stands as a testament to history. Open Doors presents an opportunity for visitors to explore rarely seen parts of the Cathedral and guests can venture to Cadw’s nearby medieval Bishop’s Palace for mid-afternoon tours, as well as enjoy a Choral Evensong sung by St Davids Cathedral Choir.

 

Powis Castle and Garden

Visit on Saturday 16th September, 10:00 – 17:00

For the very first time, an invitation awaits visitors to experience Powis Castle and Garden at no cost, granting them exclusive entry to the historical fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Shrouded in greenery with century-old apple trees and Italianate terraces, you can enjoy views across the Severn Valley or venture indoors to uncover its extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.

 

Dyffryn Gardens

Book in advance for Saturday 23rd September & Sunday 24th September, 10:00 – 17:00

Explore the 55 acres of Dyffryn Gardens and all it has to offer over a weekend full of outdoor adventure. The meticulously restored Edwardian Garden in the Vale of Glamorgan boasts a vast lawn, an arboretum featuring trees from all over the world, a glasshouse which hosts a large collection of exotic plants, and natural Log Stack play areas for children to enjoy. Pre-booking for this weekend is essential.

 

Penrhyn Castle

Visit on Saturday 9th September & Sunday 10th September, 10:00 – 16:00

Behind Penrhyn Castle’s formidable stone exterior lies a world of luxurious interiors, fine art, and a history entwined with sugar and slate fortunes. Explore its vast grounds with stunning views of Snowdonia, offering tree-climbing and adventure for little ones.

 

Caerleon Amphitheatre and Barracks (Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths)

Visit on Saturday 9th September & Sunday 10th September, 11:00 – 16:00

Join Cadw’s Roman expert for a free guided tour of the Barracks, Fosse and Amphitheatre at Caerleon and discover the vast remains of one of Europe’s largest and most important Roman miliary sites.

 

Laugharne Castle

Visit on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September, 11:00 – 16:00

Discover the majestic ruins of the medieval Laugharne Castle for free with its age-old walls and stunning panoramic views across the town and estuary. See how this mighty stone mansion inspired the famous words of authors Dylan Thomas and Richard Hughes as you take in this impressive relic of ancient times.

 

South Wales Police Heritage Centre

Book in advance for 12th, 13th, 15th, 19th, 20th, and 22nd September, 10:00 – 16:00

Built during WWII, Open Doors invited visitors to explore these historic police headquarters with free guided tours. Engage in crime scene activities, let children unleash their inner detective, and handle police equipment from 100 years ago. Spaces on these tours are limited so pre-booking is required for these events.

 

Bodnant Garden

Visit on Saturday 9th September & Sunday 10th September, 09:30 – 17:00

Unearth Bodnant Garden’s distinct beauty, set against the captivating Carneddau mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). With year-round interest, the garden thrives in vibrant hues, catering to all preferences and sparking excitement in every visitor.

 

Chirk Castle

Visit on Saturday 16th September, 10:00 – 17:00

With over 700 years of history, and as the last castle from the reign of Edward I still lived in today, Chirk Castle has lavish interiors and an eclectic collection of rich furniture, paintings and tapestries which will enchant visitors.

 

Laugharne Chapel

Visit on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September, various times

This 19th Century chapel will open its doors to visitors looking to explore the details between its sacred walls. An exhibition of local artifacts, photographs, and stories relating to Laugharne’s history and its inhabitants will be on display.

 

Visitors are advised to check the details of each event as ticket requirements vary at each location.

Further details, including a list of all participating locations, a complete schedule of events and ticketing information, are available at https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/open-doors.

 

Image of Dyffryn Gardens – Copyright Lisa Baker.

L&D, News, Training & Apprenticeships, Wales

LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK: Skills competitions are kickstarting careers for young people with additional learning needs

Bluestone is just one business in Wales giving competitors paid job placements

Young people with additional learning needs are being given a platform to showcase their skills in a competitive environment to help secure placements in the working world.

King, Morgan and Cecily, from Pembrokeshire, are just one group of learners whose performance at Skills Competition Wales and WorldSkills UK has helped them land paid work experience.

They are currently on a supported internship programme with major Welsh employer, Bluestone National Park Resort, having impressed the award-winning resort destination after their triumph in skills competitions.

The trio, who started out at Pembrokeshire College’s Life Skills Academy, are now gaining real work experience in a range of placements within the IT, food and beverage, retail, and housekeeping industries.

King Khamhanphon, who works at Bluestone’s café, said: “I work at the café at Bluestone and really enjoy it because of the team. I feel very supported and am currently a semi-finalist in the inclusive competition Restaurant Service category for WorldSkills UK’s National Finals. The competitions and my internship at Bluestone have helped me to develop my skills and confidence a lot.”

King Khamhanphon

In Wales, inclusive competitions are funded by the Welsh Government through Skills Competition Wales and are delivered by the Inspiring Skills in Wales project. Promising competitors often go on to compete in the national competitions at WorldSkills UK.

Those interested in competing in inclusive competitions can choose to compete from a selection of 12 categories including Automotive Technology, Woodwork, Childcare, Life Skills and more.

The competitions aim to not only help improve young people’s confidence and employability skills but seek to break down barriers and help learners reach significant milestones in their personal life such as securing a job and gaining financial independence.

Emma Jones, Curriculum Manager at the Life Skills Academy, said: “We’re so proud of all our learners. It’s fantastic to see how far they’ve come since starting at the academy and at their supported internships. Learners are sometimes nervous about participating in skills competitions, but it really helps to build their confidence and often gives them the boost they needed to transition into real working environments.”

“The pride that our learners have in being an authentic contributor to their community has been truly overwhelming and we are experiencing such growth in this area of our curriculum.”

Helen John, Bluestone Academy Manager, said: “We’re committed to providing opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities through workplace learning and training. The Life Skills Academy supported internship initiative is one of which we’ve had particular success and was brought to our attention through the learners’ success in several skills competitions.

“Inclusive skills competitions are a brilliant way for young people who might not otherwise have had a chance to perform under pressure in a working environment before, and as a business, we have experienced first-hand the benefits of hiring people who have a fresh perspective and varied and talented skillset.”

Welsh Government Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething, said: “Wales is showing itself to be a leading force in paving the way for opportunities for young people with disabilities and additional learning needs. I’d like to thank the learners, tutors and organisations involved in these initiatives for their hard work in helping to transform the expectations, experiences, and outcomes for so many children and young people in Wales.

“The aim of Skills Competition Wales and WorldSkills is to celebrate learners’ skills and achievements while raising their employability skills, so it’s fantastic to see reputable organisations such as Pembrokeshire College and Bluestone launching these sorts of programmes together.”

For anyone interested in getting involved in skills competitions, they can visit https://inspiringskills.gov.wales/ for more information.

 

Finance and Banking, Investment, Investment News, News, Wales

Swansea Gift Wholesaler becomes first company to access Wales’ new Green Business Loan Scheme

Swansea-based gift wholesaler, Something Different Wholesale is the first to benefit from a new loan scheme set up by the Development Bank and the Welsh Government to help businesses in Wales reduce their carbon footprint.

The company received a £1.2m loan from the scheme, which will enable it to install 2,200 new solar panels on its 158,000 square foot warehouses at the Enterprise Park on Upper Fforest Way, Swansea. The new solar energy systems will help Something Different cut its energy bills while meeting increasing demand more sustainably and allow it to sell surplus energy back to the market. The installation of the new panels follows an upgrade of the company’s lighting to LED lights in 2021.

Established in 1999, the company is one of the UK’s leading giftware suppliers and distributes to retailers worldwide. Jane Wallace-Jones, CEO of Something Different, joined the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme in 2015, working with a relationship manager to navigate changes in the business during a period of rapid growth. She later joined the programme board to provide her insights and develop the service.

It saw strong growth during the Covid-19 pandemic, with its sales reaching £12.5m at the end of the 2020/21 financial year. They also recently introduced an improved end-to-end service for smaller clients, along with next-day deliveries and online access to livestock feeds.

Jane Wallace-Jones, founder, and CEO of Something Different, said: “We are delighted to be leading the way towards a sustainable future for Wales. We are committed to supporting the social, economic, and environmental wellbeing of our community.

“The support from the Development Bank of Wales has allowed us to achieve our first milestone on the journey as we continuously look for ways to build a greener future.”

Giles Thorley, Chief Executive of the Development Bank of Wales, said: “We are delighted to have supported Something Different Wholesale in executing a substantial sustainability energy project with the assistance of our Green Business Loan Scheme.

“This is the latest in a series of investments we’ve made into Something Different, and we’ve been very pleased to see their international gift wholesale business flourish.  We will continue to support them on their growth journey with an environmental responsibility..”

He added: “The scheme is there to help SMEs such as Something Different who see the value in reducing their carbon footprint. The recent energy price spikes and other inflationary pressures has highlighted the further benefit of reducing the impact of these price rises by investing in schemes to reduce energy consumption or to generate their own energy on-site.  We want more businesses to take advantage of the Green Business Loan Scheme and get the support they need to decarbonise their operations.

“Thanks to this project, Something Different will both produce enough energy for their Swansea site and generate a return on energy sold back into the market, while taking further steps to lessen the energy use of their business more broadly.”

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said:

“I’m delighted to see this home-grown business get the support it needs from the Welsh Government and Development Bank of Wales to innovate and adapt to the climate emergency.

“Tackling climate change is a priority for the Welsh Government. That’s why we’ve set ambitious plans for Wales to become net zero by 2050.

“Businesses like Something Different are a crucial part of our net zero ambition, so we’re proud to work with the Development Bank in supporting Welsh businesses on their decarbonisation journey.

“We want to ensure businesses have the support needed to make the improvements they want and need to make, through Green Business Loans and practical advice from our Business Wales service.

“I’d encourage any businesses interested in the new scheme to contact the Development Bank for more information.”

The Green Business Loan Scheme supports businesses to invest in renewable technology, improve the fabric of their premises, upgrade systems to reduce energy use and reduce waste. As well as providing loans, the scheme also allows businesses to access advice on decarbonisation.

To learn more about the scheme and/or apply, visit visit here: https://developmentbank.wales/get-business-finance/apply-now

To learn more about Something Different Wholesale, visit here: https://www.somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk/

News, Pembrokeshire, Travel, Wales, Wales News, West Wales

Wales’ luxury resort launches new Platinum lodges

  • 80 new lodges set to open from 26th May at Bluestone National Park Resort as part of a £24 million development of the resort.
  • Platinum lodges are the most luxurious offering yet, featuring sunrooms, picturesque surroundings, a private entrance and ‘cwtch’ rooms and 20% more space.
  • Bluestone is set in the beautiful natural surroundings of Pembrokeshire, with beaches and cliff-walks easily reached.
  • With high ceilings, simple yet stylish décor, and peaceful surroundings, the platinum lodges elevate domestic holidays into new levels of comfort and luxury living.

The luxury holiday resort sits in 500 acres of National Park in the scenic countryside of Pembrokeshire.

The resort already has over 300 lodges and a diverse array of activities within the resort, as well as the natural surrounding beauty of Pembrokeshire’s beaches, cliffs and harbours.

From kayaking across Bluestone’s lake, cycling through its stunning trails on mountain bikes, and then recharging in the resort’s very own spa, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

The three types of platinum lodges have been created to suit all needs, and each one is supplied with complimentary electric buggies, so guests can travel swiftly around the resort in style and with ease.

Additional features include sunrooms, designated outdoor areas, picturesque surroundings, and ‘cwtch’ rooms for encouraging quality time together.

Around 250 jobs have been sustained during the construction phase of the platinum lodges and a further 100 operational jobs will be created now they are open to guests. These figures add to the 800 people that Bluestone currently employs.

Bluestone’s Director of Sustainability, Marten Lewis, said: “Our ‘Free Range Future’ movement is at the heart of everything we do to ensure all our investments and initiatives benefit the local community and environment.

“It was key for us to channel this ethos through our latest investments, which have demonstrated our commitment to furthering our green credentials and making sure our environmental footsteps are as light as possible.

“Sustainable building practices have formed a huge part of construction of these projects, such as the platinum lodges which have been built upon the principles of biophilic design to bring elements of the natural world into the modern designs.

“Guests are now set to benefit from these major milestones that have come to life, with the platinum lodges and highly anticipated Black Pool Mill restaurant now open for people to enjoy.”

The first platinum lodges opened to the public today, 26th May 2023, and bookings can be made via Bluestone’s website: https://www.bluestonewales.com/resort.

Marketing and PR, News, Swansea, Wales

New design division unveiled by Seren Global Media

In a significant milestone for Seren Global Media, the PR and marketing agency based in Swansea, the company has unveiled Seren Design, a brand-new design-focused division coinciding with its decade-long journey in the industry.

The new dedicated division offers a range of bespoke design services, graphic design, branding, marketing materials, advert design and visual content creation. The move comes off the back of an increase in demand for visually compelling and impactful design solutions and is aimed at enhancing its existing service offering and further positioning it as a one-stop-shop for all digital marketing needs.

The design division will be led by Grant Nicholas, PR and Creative Director, and delivered by a team of experienced designers, who will work closely with clients to develop bespoke design solutions that align with both brand image and business objectives.

The team of highly skilled designers and creative professionals will draw on their expertise in various design disciplines, to create designs that are not only visually striking but also effective in achieving client’s goals. The launch of the new division comes at a time when businesses are increasingly looking for ways to differentiate themselves in a crowded digital landscape.

Seren Global Media is also celebrating its tenth year trading this year. It was established by Wyn Jenkins, its Managing Director, with the aim of providing unrivalled promotional content and brand awareness services for businesses in Wales. Since then, Seren Global Media now caters to businesses both UK-wide and globally, and the aspiration for further growth through the new division signifies an important development period for the company.

Speaking on the launch, Grant Nicholas, PR and Creative Director, Seren Global Media, said:

“We are excited to launch our dedicated design division, which will allow us to better serve our clients by offering a wider range of services. We understand the importance of design in effective marketing campaigns, and we are committed to providing our clients with top-notch design solutions that meet their needs and exceed their expectations.”

Wyn Jenkins, Managing Director, Seren Global Media, said:

“Reaching our ten-year anniversary was a moment of great pride for everybody at Seren Global Media. Over the years, we have been able to develop longstanding and beneficial relationships with our clients.

“With the launch of this dedicated division, we are excited to partner with businesses of all sizes, from startups to established brands, and provide them with the design expertise necessary to enhance their visual presence, engage their customers, and drive business growth.”

For inquiries or to learn more about Seren Global Media’s dedicated design division, please visit www.serenglobalmedia.com.

Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business, Business Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business News, South Wales, Swansea, Telecoms, Telecoms News, Wales

Flotek Completes 8th Acquisition in 12 Months

Flotek has acquired Liberty Solutions (Swansea) Limited, a telecommunications provider based in Swansea. The deal is the 8th acquisition for IT & Comms MSP Flotek Group since launching in April 2022 by CEO, Jay Ball.

 

Flotek is known for its innovative solutions and customer-centric approach. With a mission to help SMEs consolidate data and voice communications with one trusted provider, the acquisition further enhances the offering to Flotek’s customers.

 

Founded by Andre Morgan, Liberty Solutions is a telecommunications provider offering telephone systems, telephone lines and business broadband solutions tailored to small and medium sized businesses.

 

Jay Ball, CEO of Flotek, said: “We are pleased that Liberty Solutions is now part of the Flotek family. They have been a trusted telecom provider for local businesses in and around South Wales, joining Flotek means customers will now benefit from Managed IT & Cybersecurity services from one technology provider.”

 

Flotek’s growth strategy is driven by its core value of providing customers a single point of contact for all their technology needs.

 

On Flotek’s rapid growth, Jay continues: “Having completed 8 acquisitions in 12 months, we now have 4 Swansea bases as well as multiple locations in England. Expanding our market share so rapidly in such a short period of time has been a great first step in our long term growth strategy.

 

“Right now, our priorities are integrating and operating as one business with clearly defined goals. We continue to communicate with all parts of the business to ensure integration plans are on track ready for any future acquisitions.”

 

Previous deals made by Flotek include Gower Business Systems, Cloud9ine and Saecom in South Wales and Mazing Tree, FlexiNet, ECS Solutions and Toolk-IT, which enabled the group’s geographical expansion as well as enhancing Flotek’s service offering.

 

Multidiscipline dealmakers GS Verde Group structured and advised on the deal.

Connect with Flotek: at www.flotek.io.

 

Business & Property News, Business Expansion, Property, Wales

World-class technical support that elevates customer expectations.

Further to their ever-growing business, PR Lift Equipment would like to extend a big welcome to Ryad Atrouche as Technical Support Specialist to their team.

“Developing our technical department even further ensures that we continue to provide the most reliable and reassuring service to you, our customers” , says PR Sales Director, Lee-Roy Rushforth.

Ryad formerly worked at Arkel Electric Electronic in Turkey and has a great wealth of technical experience supporting Arkel equipment, as well as many other advanced and complex electronic lift systems.

As PR’s dedicated technical support specialist, Ryad will be responsible for collaborating with customers to offer lift technical support with troubleshooting, fixing technical problems such as job sites support. Ryad will also be providing training, looking at data and system logs, testing equipment and much more. All remotely at their customers’ convenience via telephone, email or Whatsapp.

Speaking of his early career Ryad has said “ I graduated in automotive mechatronics and worked in the same field in my native Algeria before moving to Turkey, where I started my career in the elevator industry.

My motivation for entering this field was the opportunity to work with advanced and complex electrical and electronic systems and to make a positive impact on the technical support of customers, by ensuring their complete satisfaction.”

The ability to apply my specialist knowledge to help solve difficult problems and also to maintain and optimise day-to-day elevator operations is the best part of my job.

The most memorable experience of my career so far was when I had the opportunity to participate in one of the biggest exhibitions in the world (Asansor Istanbul).

This gave me the chance to connect with a variety of customers from across the globe and solve a multitude of inquiries. Being able to diagnose and solve major electronic issues in their elevator systems in several minutes that had been causing them problems for several months, was incredibly satisfying.”

Ryad, along with the rest of the PR Lift Equipment team will be hosting a number of dedicated tech Q&A events for Lift technicians, engineers, service/inspection personnel and
Lift consultants each month via Facebook.

Make sure you take full advantage of these “Tech-Talk” sessions by joining their Facebook community: www.facebook.com/PRLiftEquipment.

To find out more about our lift equipment or to speak to an expert, email sales@prliftequip.co.uk or call us on 01244 631321. www.prliftequipment.co.uk

Construction, Construction News, News, Wales

Welsh Fabricator returns to Cambridge for innovative project

WELSH fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has secured another project at Babraham Research Campus in Cambridge.

Dudley’s will be working with SDC Builders Ltd on the B960 building, a new 54,000 square foot multi-tenanted laboratory building with associated car parks, landscaping and servicing. The building is designed to be constructed to the BREEAM Excellent standard.

Kawneer curtain walling with feature face caps and commercial doors will be installed by the fabricator, as well as a revolving door for the main entrance and fire rated curtain walling and doors.

Babraham Research Campus provides high quality, flexible and sustainable laboratory and office accommodation for existing and new life sciences companies. The campus facilitates companies with innovative research to scale rapidly.

 

Colin Shorney, Managing Director of Dudley’s Aluminium, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Cambridge for our third project at the Babraham Research Campus. This will be a fantastic addition for bioscience and life sciences businesses in the area looking to grow and develop.”

 

Since 1993, Dudley’s Aluminium has offered clients full in-house design and production facilities, completing many successful and prestigious projects within the education, health, commercial, retail, residential and defence sectors throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Dudley’s reputation for quality has been recognised with several industry-related accreditations. The company is CHAS accredited, Constructionline registered and BM Trada certified to manufacture enhanced security products to align with PAS24:2016 and BS 4873.

Marketing, News, PR and SEO, Wales, Wales News

Effective Communication partners with Manufacturing Wales

Award-winning public relations firm Effective Communication has become an approved partner of Manufacturing Wales.

Effective Communication, which has a presence in Wales and the south west of England, supports businesses with PR, digital and video expertise. The firm has worked with several leading manufacturers for many years, in addition to businesses in the public, private and third sectors.

Manufacturing Wales facilitates the pioneering spirit of manufacturing firms and universities in Wales, recognising that the future of the sector lies with leaders that share common purpose.

The collaborative consortium’s aim is to create a proactive environment for the industry to bring together ideas, innovations and best practices to help Welsh manufacturing firms to be more determined and prepare for investment with a ‘future proofing’ mentality. Members of Manufacturing Wales build partnerships and develop strategies to maximise supply chain opportunities.

The new partnership will see Effective Communication use their public relations, marketing and copywriting services to drive responses to trends and share tips for crisis management with manufacturers.

Alastair Milburn, managing director of Effective Communication, said: “This partnership is one that we are very excited about. With our specialist team, I feel as though we can achieve great things for the community at Manufacturing Wales.”

Heather Anstey-Myers, CEO of Manufacturing Wales, said: “We are really happy to be working with Effective Communication. Having seen their work with clients over the years, this partnership was an easy decision for us. We want to be their next success story.”

For more information about Effective Communication, visit www.weareeffective.co.uk

Education News, Newport, Training, Wales, Wales News

Welsh couple affected by redundancy receive tailored support to rewrite their careers

A couple from Newport has praised the support they have received in helping them back into work following funding from the Welsh Government.

Shane Lock and Corrina Lewis from Newport are encouraging more adults to seek support after they both received funding and advice following a change in their work circumstances.

Shane Lock, 35, previously worked in warehousing and hospitality before landing his new role as a Health and Safety Compliance Officer thanks to a fully funded training course.

He contacted Working Wales, an all-age careers advice service funded by the Welsh Government and run by Careers Wales, after hearing about the support and guidance his partner, Corrina, 42, had received after being made redundant.

Shane said: “I’ve worked in several different roles, but recently I’d started to feel unmotivated and stuck in temporary work situations. I wanted to find a long-term career, and for that, I knew I needed more qualifications.

“I initially attended an appointment with an adviser at Working Wales with my partner, who was already looking for work, and quickly realised I could also benefit from the free advice and training programmes they were offering.

“I hadn’t thought about speaking with a careers adviser before, but the experience has been great. I had a dedicated Working Wales adviser assigned to me, and they really listened to my situation, giving me advice on my career prospects and qualification options.

“They suggested I start a course via a Personal Learning Account which has really suited me because of how flexible it was and the number of qualifications available, all for free. I spoke to an adviser on a Monday, and by Friday I had started my course.”

Personal Learning Accounts provide flexible courses and qualifications that are fully funded by the Welsh Government.

The programme is aimed at adults in Wales who are currently working but looking for something new, allowing them to study part-time around their existing responsibilities. It enables individuals to obtain the qualifications they need to change their careers or progress in their current roles.

Shane continued: “I’m currently studying for the NEBOSH National General Certificate in Health and Safety, and despite not yet finishing the course, it’s already helped me secure a new role as a Health and Safety Compliance Officer in the residential property sector.

“I’m responsible for the effective and efficient management of health and safety on our sites, including policy implementation, monitoring and inspection, risk assessment and investigation. For the first time in years, I’ve found a career I really want to excel in, and it’s given me a new sense of purpose in my professional life.

“The Personal Learning Account has also given me the freedom to study without having the worry about the rising costs of living or feeling like I’m tied into an employer to learn and progress.  It’s not something I could have afforded by myself as it costs over £900 to do, but it was completely covered by the Welsh Government.”

Shane’s partner, Corrina, is also currently looking for work and has been receiving support from Working Wales and was referred to the ReAct+ programme.

 

ReAct+ is a personalised support package designed for people who have recently become unemployed or are facing or going through redundancy. The programme helps individuals to overcome obstacles and improve their chances of returning to work after their jobs have been made redundant.

 

Corrina has 20 years of experience in the dentistry industry but was recently made redundant after her employer went into liquidation.

 

Corrina said: “I’m currently looking for a new challenge but had been struggling to secure a new role. When I spoke to a Careers Adviser at Working Wales, they immediately suggested the ReAct+ programme because of how flexible it is.

 

“From my initial meeting, I’ve received CV support and guidance and funding to develop my skills in accounting through an AAT bookkeeping course.

 

“Even the smallest things such as top tips on how to improve my CV have been invaluable. I’ve already seen an increase in the responses I get back to the job roles I’m applying for, which is such a confidence boost when you’re looking for work.”

“I have felt incredibly supported at every stage, and most of all I feel like my adviser really listened to me and tailored the help I needed around my situation and skills. Receiving expert advice can often be expensive but I haven’t had to worry about that which is a huge weight off my mind.

“Most importantly, it’s made me realise that I’m not on my own. It’s helped boost my confidence and has been such a huge relief to know that help is available.”

 

Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething, said: “We are committed to offering people across Wales the opportunity to receive funding and support to pursue careers and jobs that are needed by employers in Wales.

“Personal Learning Accounts and ReAct+ have been designed to fulfil the distinctive demands of each individual. With sponsored training, both programmes provide opportunity to upskill and retrain. At the same time, these programmes help adults in Wales with their personal growth and development.

“Our goal is to continue addressing skills gaps in our economy while also supporting those who have current barriers to employment.”

 

Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: “I am determined that Wales should be a nation of second chances. That’s why I’m committed to ensuring everyone has access to lifelong learning and the chance to renew their career in adult life.

“I’d encourage anyone looking for support or change of direction to take advantage of the free advice and training available from Working Wales, I’m pleased to see our investment in the Personal Learning Account is helping people on their journey to a fulfilling professional life.”

 

Personal Learning Accounts is fully funded by Welsh Government and ReAct+ is part-funded by the European Social Fund.

 

If you are looking for a career change, are out of work, or are at risk of redundancy, search Working Wales or call 0800 028 4844 to access a personalised package of support, matched to your individual needs.