Kickstart Scheme Success at WHC Hire

In 2021 WHC Hire took the initiative to get involved with the Kickstart Scheme set out by the UK government.

The Kickstart Scheme is a programme launched to deliver funding for employers offering new job roles for 16-24 years olds who received Universal Credit. The programme aims at preventing young people who are currently unemployed from facing long term unemployment.

Christian joined the WHC team in Tewkesbury back in June 2021, through the Kickstart scheme on work placement for 42.5 hours a week. After being exposed to multiple different aspects of the business, Christian took a shine to the plant workshop. Shortly after showing a great capacity for learning and application, he achieved qualifications in Plant Mover, Abrasive Wheels and Fitting Training and HAE Introduction to the Hire industry.

At the end of Christian’s work placement on 6th December 2021, MD James Clutterbuck was so delighted with his progress and efforts, that he was awarded a full-time contract opportunity at WHC Hire.

WHC are delighted to announce that Christian has since accepted his position and is continuing to enjoy his career progression with WHC Hire. As well as his daily duties as ‘Workshop Assistant’, he is also continuing his knowledge development with an additional course in ‘Portable Appliance Testing.

WHC Hire’s MD James Clutterbuck said, “We are absolutely delighted with Christian and his progress. The kickstart scheme has really given us the opportunity to give a local young individual the chance of a lifelong career. Christian has truly taken it upon himself to apply and learn the ins and outs of the hire industry. Not only this, but he has now become an integral part of our operation in Tewkesbury. I am very proud of what he has achieved so far and look forward to having him on board for many years to come. Well done Christian!

Kathryn Foxley from the Department of Work and Pensions said,

“Following a successful Kickstart placement at WHC Hire, the Kickstart team at Tewkesbury Jobcentre are pleased to share that former customer, Christian has secured a permanent position!”

“Christian who was initially keen to find work in the cyber security industry, revised his plans as he felt he would like to work in a hands on environment. Following a 2 year search, Christian made a Universal Credit claim and his Work Coach, Jo was keen to line up an interview at Tewkesbury Jobcentre with Gerry from WHC Hire. Christian was successful and offered the Small Tool hire Helpdesk role.”

“Christian spent a few weeks working in different departments across the business and showed an interest the large plant workshop.
Gerry Knowles, Compliance Manager at WHC Hire commented he was quick to realise that Christian was going to be an asset to the company as he displayed a great work ethic, quick to take on new skills and is always looking for the next task.”

“WHC MD, James and Gerry have both commented on how Christian has grown in confidence, works well with the team and the company is really keen to support him to forge a long term career in the business following his new found interest in plant engineering.
When asked if he had any advice for other young people looking to start a kickstart placement, Christian commented ‘be patient and give things a go!’”

“We wish Christian every success in his new role!”