Platform Housing Group has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ex-servicemen and women into employment by continuing its successful partnership with West Yorkshire’s Brookhouse Training Centre, a collaboration that has already helped four former military personnel qualify as Gas Safe registered engineers.
Members of the Platform Property Care Heating Management team visited Brookhouse’s Cleckheaton based facility to see first hand the impressive training environment and ethos that underpin the centre’s work with ex military trainees. The visit also marked a significant milestone in the partnership, with the appointment of former trainee and ex soldier John Maclennan and Michael Long to permanent roles as Gas Engineers.
John, who served for 25 years in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, completed his training at Brookhouse before undertaking a placement with Platform to complete his portfolio. He now joins the organisation as a full time engineer.
John said:
“The training I received at Brookhouse was well structured and delivered by knowledgeable instructors. Every session was tailored to the different levels of experience in the room and no one was left behind. Since joining Platform, the support has been amazing. The company genuinely cares about its engineers and there’s always someone on hand to help. There are also real opportunities to develop and upskill, which is hugely motivating.”
Brookhouse Training – the UK’s leading gas and plumbing training provider – specialises in mentoring and supporting adult learners, particularly those transitioning out of the armed forces. By partnering with Platform’s Heating Services team, the two organisations provide social value through supporting learners.
Tim Hughes, Development Manager at Brookhouse Training said:
“We’re thrilled to see our partnership with Platform go from strength to strength. The experience trainees gain through work placements with Platform is invaluable, giving them the confidence and skills needed to transition into successful careers as gas engineers. We’re excited to see where this collaboration takes us next.”
Platform Housing Group is a proud supporter of the Armed Forces Covenant and holds a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – or ERS – award. Its work with Brookhouse has delivered positive outcomes for both veterans and the communities they now serve.
Phil Trickett, Head of Heating and Compliance at Platform Housing Group said:
“We’re incredibly proud of our ongoing relationship with Brookhouse Training and the shared commitment to supporting ex military personnel. Welcoming John and Michael into our team is testament to the success of this partnership. We’ve now supported 30 trainees through their portfolios, all of whom have gone on to qualify. This initiative not only has high social value but also provides a meaningful route into recruitment. It enables us to get to know the individuals, their capabilities and their mindset. And for the right person, it can lead to a full time role, just as it has for John and Michael.”
Platform remains committed to opening doors for those who have served, helping ex forces personnel to build new careers and make a lasting difference in their communities.