Charities invest in ‘homegrown talent’

Two County Durham charities are creating new apprenticeship opportunities as part of efforts to develop local talent and strengthen their workforces.

Bishop Auckland-based The Auckland Project and Angel Trust have each recruited a business administration apprentice in partnership with Bishop Auckland College.

The apprentices will gain experience in customer service and administration while supporting the organisations’ day-to-day activities.

Meanwhile, The Auckland Project has also appointed two finance apprentices, who are due to join later this summer and will study accounting qualifications at New College Durham alongside working within its finance team.

Employing more than 200 people, the charity draws 80 per cent of its workforce from within ten miles of its Bishop Auckland base.

It already supports apprentices across a range of disciplines, with employees studying qualifications from Level 2 Property Maintenance through to Level 7 Accountancy.

Other apprentices are developing skills in business administration and hospitality supervision.

Jane Ruffer, chief executive of The Auckland Project, said: “We believe that investing in people is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our community. 

“Apprenticeships give local people the opportunity to develop skills, build confidence and establish rewarding careers while making a real difference to the lives of others. 

“We’re delighted to be working alongside Angel Trust, Bishop Auckland College and New College Durham to create these opportunities and support the next generation of talent in Bishop Auckland.”

Clair McGregor, chief executive of Angel Trust, added: “Creating opportunities for local people sits at the heart of everything we do. 

“Apprenticeships are an important part of that commitment, enabling people to develop valuable skills while contributing to organisations that are working to transform Bishop Auckland. 

“We are proud to work alongside The Auckland Project to invest in local talent and help build a stronger future for our town.”

Bishop Auckland College works with employers across the county to recruit apprentices, combining nationally recognised qualifications with workplace experience.

Shaun Hope, chief executive and principal at Bishop Auckland College Group, added: “Being at the very heart of our community is fundamental to everything we do at Bishop Auckland College.

“Apprenticeships are one of the most powerful tools we have to change lives, providing local people with the skills, confidence and hands-on experience they need to build meaningful careers.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with fantastic local charities like The Auckland Project and Angel Trust. 

“Together, we aren’t just strengthening the delivery of their essential services, we are investing directly in the future of Bishop Auckland by developing and retaining homegrown talent.”

The Auckland Project and Angel Trust also collaborate on wider community initiatives, including donating surplus produce from Auckland Palace’s Walled Garden to support families through Angel Trust.

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