CAV’S COLUMN

“A champion of training for young people.” Roy Cavanagh MBE has remained with the major contractor, Seddon, for over 50 years. He received an MBE for his services to construction and is renowned for his efforts in campaigning for apprenticeships and training for young people across Salford and the UK. Roy is passionate about anything Salfordian as he was born and raised in the city and has lived in Ordsall, Little Hulton and Worsley.

ROY CAVANAGH MBE

A VERY DIFFERENT TIME!

The whole world changed in March, but when will we see it return to ‘normal’?

There are many people and families suffering in various different ways but I really hope we don’t forget the young in all of this. I make no apologies for repeating a mantra of mine, ‘Who taught you? - ‘Who gave you a chance?’.

It seems as though everybody is adapting to new ways of working, but how do the young as apprentices or trainees, fit into all this? Offices are virtually empty, there is widespread closure across the retail sector, and the hospitality industry, in particular, is being severely tested. So, what steps can be taken to ensure the young people of our communities are supported throughout this challenging time?

We all really need to search for new ideas, ways to help matters, perhaps those of you reading this have some - if so, I’m sure the team at Apprenticeships at Salford City College would welcome a conversation.

WE STILL NEED TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

Across all sectors, where possible, we still have a social and moral responsibility to create opportunities for our youth. The new Kickstart scheme will help this, but it is vital that we continue to use the apprenticeship levy and government apprenticeship funding for smaller organisations to support the development of new apprenticeship opportunities. Our businesses need the skills and motivation these individuals can offer now and in the future. 2021 will be a huge year for all of us. Lets hope some sense of normality does return and we can really work hard to bring new apprentices into our businesses.

Stay safe everybody in these trying times and where or if you can, please help the young.

ROY CAVANAGH MBE