A NEW regeneration project to support people experiencing homelessness in a major city has created new construction jobs for young people struggling to find employment.

Two 20-year-olds Liam Bennett and Jack Moore have recently been employed as General Operatives at supported accommodation project Elliott House. Their roles will involve supporting on the construction site, making sure the site is in good order and machinery and equipment is well maintained.

The new positions were created thanks to a partnership between Meldrum Construction and Changing Lives.

The Northern Echo:

Mr Moore said: “Since being given this opportunity by Changing Lives and Meldrum, I have gained an extraordinary amount of confidence not only in myself but also in my line of work.

"I have also received exceptional support and feedback from all levels of Meldrum.”

Meldrum Construction Services were appointed as main contractor to deliver the regeneration of Elliott House.

The project was made possible thanks to £2.2m of funding from Homes England and support from Newcastle City Council.

The 52-bed hostel which offered short term emergency accommodation for people in crisis housing situations will be transformed into 36 self-contained apartments for those individuals who have experienced difficult times.

The Northern Echo:

Meldrum has employed over 140 trainees and apprentices over its nearly 20-year history. Founded in 2001 by Dave Meldrum, Meldrum Construction Services was set up after deciding there had to be a different way to do construction.