A DOZEN unemployed residents are being given a hand getting into the construction industry thanks to a new training course.

Landlord Karbon Homes is helping residents in the Derwentside area undergo the two-day course through its Unlocking Social Value project.

The initiative encourages contractors to contribute time, money and expertise to local community projects where they are working.

One of those to benefit from the training was Cris McGonnell, 28, from Hamsterley Colliery.

He said, “It’s a really good idea to help people like myself who are unemployed but need the qualifications to apply for jobs on site.

“My dad has worked on construction sites all his life and I just want to follow in his footsteps and provide for my family.

“My fiancé and I are expecting our first child so this training couldn’t have come at a better time.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to secure employment soon.”

Training sessions covered areas such as health and safety and construction skills.

Michelle Graham, Employment Initiatives Officer at Karbon Homes, said: “One of the main barriers to employment in the construction industry is the cost of gaining the necessary qualifications in health and safety and construction skills.

“We are very grateful to our contractor, Springs Roofing, who provided the funding for this training.

“The course was a huge success and those who attended gained the two qualifications required to help them secure a career within the construction industry and I would like to wish them luck in their search for employment.”