A SCHEME to train residential workers is celebrating after seven trainees achieved their qualifications.

Trainees with Sunderland City Council's social services department's began their courses last August and were given posts in residential homes, or day care services for people with learning difficulties.

The have now passed NVQs at level 3, which confirm their job competence. A further eight trainees are expected to finish their courses this summer.

Divisional manager Les Pickering said yesterday: "We launched this scheme to recruit people who may have considered work in a caring environment, but who have no previous experience or qualifications.

"The scheme offers people 12 months on-the-job training and the chance to achieve a nationally-recognised qualification.

"I am delighted with the success of the scheme so far and congratulate those people who have already achieved qualifications and a permanent post within the department."

Anne Doffegnies, trainee scheme coordinator, said yesterday: "We have had people from a variety of backgrounds and a wide age range successfully complete this scheme, which has led them to a permanent position with social services.

"We now have residential care workers who had previously worked in factories and some who have taken time out to raise families.

"This scheme is ideal for people who may have had a lifetime of one kind of work and would like to take the opportunity to go and do something else."

Anyone who would like further details can contact the council's adult direct care services on 0191-553 6274