Training

CRL Ltd and Link Alliance are continuing to work to maximise the training and employment opportunities for those experiencing barriers or disadvantage, with a focus on mana whenua, Māori, Pasifika and rangatahi.

More than half of Link Alliance focus group employees had Career Development Plans in place by the end of 2022, a significant milestone for the project. Completing these plans helped identify strategic areas for targeted training, while 89% of focus group members undertook training in 2022, more than double the proportion of 2021.

A new training management system has been introduced to allow Link Alliance’s Training and Development team to better manage, monitor and report on focus group career progression and training. A recent audit completed by CRL Ltd's Social Outcomes Advisory Group highlighted the importance of having these systems in place right from the beginning of a project.

Employment

The Progressive Employment Programme (PEP) is one of City Rail Link’s flagship social outcome employment initiatives. The goal of the programme (a 16-week training course) is to help bypass barriers preventing rangatahi from getting to the employment starting line.

In March 2022, six rangatahi joined the PEP and through the programme gained practical experience and micro credentials. All six interns were offered full time positions with Downer, and labour hire companies (Freestyla and Auckland Formwork). Five interns accepted the offers, with one choosing to pursue another industry after realising Construction wasn’t for him.

• A second cohort of six interns began in August. Four rangatahi are on track to receive full time employment. Two left the Programme after realising Construction wasn’t for them

• Recruitment is now underway for a further 12 PEP interns for 2023.

Summary to date

Praise for the programme has been high. Pastoral care providers who partner in delivery of the programme believe there is a real need for other employers to take a similar wrap around approach to working with rangatahi.

Number of rangatahi graduated from the programme 29

Number of graduates employed after the programme 24

Number of graduates employed > 12 months 13