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Hopkins Concrete invests in the future of local young people

Tuesday 20 December 2016, 17:30
By Attention Media

Matthew and Christian standing next to a Hopkins Concrete lorry

Hopkins Concrete has joined forces with LGS Training and Key4Life to appoint two new team members, investing in the future of both local young people and its own workforce. In an industry where there is a shortage of HGV drivers, and with an average age of over 47 across the 85 employed drivers, the company is keen to recruit young people from the local communities.

20-year-old Christian joins the team for three days a week work experience as part of his rehabilitation programme with Key4Life, while 21-year-old Matthew Chaves is appointed as the company’s second apprentice.

Key4Life is a rehabilitation charity set up by Eva Hamilton MBE and is designed to offer support and guidance to people who have experienced adverse situations in their lives. The programme allows them to gain important skills to build a career path and move forward in their lives.

Christian is looking to turn his life around, having recently hit rock bottom. Only six weeks ago Christian’s life was in the balance as he struggled to control his anxiety issues and drug problems. Christian is being challenged onto a new path through mentoring, work tasters, and assistance in finding and sustaining long-term employment in order to create a new future.

We were impressed with Christian’s attitude and enthusiasm and if he continues on his new path he could become an employable asset to any company.

 - Paul Wright, Fleet Manager

As part of the UK Government-led apprentice scheme Matthew Chave will spend a year with the company, which will see him gain his LGV category C license with LGS Training of Frome. Until now Matthew has been working in the hotel and catering industry but he has been keen to follow in both his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps and become an LGV driver. With Hopkins' help, he is now able to afford the training costs and pursue his dream career.

Matthew recently began his driver training, hoping to pass his test by Christmas.




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