Groundwork was the perfect place to start my career

Nidal on a boat in his new role at Canal River Trust

A former Groundwork employee, now thriving in his career as an Environmental Scientist and Ecologist, has described Groundwork as ‘the perfect place to start my career’.

Nidal

Three years ago, like lots of young people leaving colleges and universities, Nidal (then aged 23) struggled to start his career, especially one that would make good use of his qualifications.

Many end up having to rely on Universal Credit to support them whilst trying to find employment. This included Nidal, from Wigan, who has a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science.

After completing his degree and relocating from his hometown in the south to the north, Nidal spent many months feeling frustrated and demotivated by the lack of suitable job opportunities available. Even with many hours of volunteering at conservation charities in England and Wales, he was beginning to wonder if he would ever make use of his degree.

The Groundwork team provided me with an incredible, inclusive working environment that made going to work a pleasure!

Kickstart

When the Job Centre told him about the government’s Kickstart scheme, it was a huge turning point for Nidal. After successfully applying for the role of Conservation Trainee, he worked as part of the Trust’s environmental team. It not only provided him with paid employment, but also a chance to gain valuable workplace experience in a varied and very ‘hands on’ role, which he loved. Nidal grabbed this opportunity with both hands, gaining new skills and knowledge, a new found confidence and a strong CV. This enabled him to secure the type of permanent job role he wanted, as an Environmental Monitoring Technician.

Nidal says Groundwork was the perfect place to start my career in the environmental sector. I gained practical conservation skills and experience that I still use today. The Groundwork team provided me with an incredible, inclusive working environment that made going to work a pleasure!”

Thriving

Since then, Nidal’s career has gone from strength to strength. Nidal is currently working in a hybrid role of Environmental Scientist and Ecologist at Canal River Trust covering the North West.