BUSINESSES are providing inspiration to the future generation of workers
through a series of talks organised by a leading employment charity.

Charitable organisation Inspira has teamed up with Ullswater Community
College to launch its Lunchtime Talks series, inviting local businesses to
talk to students in Years 10-12 about the many different careers available
on their doorsteps.

The talks have been organised as part of Inspira’s The Link initiative which
encourages Cumbrian SMEs to work with young people across the county
to help them understand the world of work.

A total of 17 Cumbrian businesses have signed up for the series which
involves a short presentation on job and training opportunities, followed by
a question and answer session.

Mark Bowman, Inspira’s chief executive, said: “As an organisation, we are
passionate about helping people into employment, and working with young
people to inspire them on their pathways to successful careers.

“The students hearing first-hand how they can gain jobs or work experience
with such a wide range of interesting businesses in their area helps inspire
them to think more about their futures.

“We’re very grateful to all the businesses who are dedicating their precious
time to support local teenagers, and it’s been pleasing to see how engaged
and interested the students have been in the sessions.”

Penrith-based housebuilder Genesis Homes is one of the 13 companies
which has signed up to the Lunchtime Talks sessions, and will speak to
students on November 23.

The company has forged relationships with schools and colleges across
Cumbria as part of its commitment to support young people into
employment. Genesis Homes currently has a number of apprentices
working at the business, and staff are also encouraged to upskill through
ongoing training initiatives.

Katy Aris, Group Marketing Executive at Genesis Homes, said: “We are
always exploring ways to support young people and highlight job and
training opportunities in the sector, and we are looking forward to getting in
front of the students to highlight pathways into the construction industry.

“This is a great opportunity to promote the many roles within the sector,
whether on site labouring or working in the office in accounts or marketing,
and we hope to inspire young people to take the next steps into an
interesting career.”

In addition to Genesis Homes, the other participating businesses are the
NHS, Gen2, Lloyd Group, Cubby Construction, the Westmorland Group,
Center Parcs, the Army, Cumbria Police, North Lakes Hotel, GKM
Solicitors, WSP, Marsh Commercial, Persimmon Homes, DNV Spadeadam
and System People.