Community development

Train2work West London Programme

Having a job can make a huge difference to how our residents feel about themselves and their community. As well as bringing in a wage, gainful employment also helps people develop their skills, live independently, and make a positive contribution to society. We work with a wide range of residents – including the long-term unemployed, lone parents, and ex-offenders – to help them find rewarding careers.

Operating across six London boroughs, Catalyst Communities Housing Association’s Train2Work West London programme offers information, advice and guidance for residents who are looking to get into work. Whether residents are searching for a first job, changing career paths, or have been unemployed for a long period of time, the team provides positive, practical support.

24-year-old Chris Fletcher, signed up for the Train 2 Work West London in 2005. Having experienced the frustration of leaving school with few qualifications, he was keen to learn a trade that he’d enjoy and profit from. Now working towards an NQV Level 2 in carpentry, Chris has been gaining valuable work experience on our regeneration schemes in Acton. “I settled for things earlier in life,” he explains. “I used to take second best. But I like it here. I like the problem-solving, the need for determination and patience, and the fact that I’m constantly learning. My skills and confidence have increased so that I want to do more, like achieve Level 3 and get into site management.”

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