THE Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has joined forces with HS2 to invest in three new dedicated Recruitment Hubs for the project in the West Midlands.
HS2’s construction partner for Interchange Station, Laing O’Rourke, has confirmed they will need up to 1,000 people to deliver the project.
Mace Dragados, building Curzon Street, estimate over 1,000 jobs – including an estimated 150 new entrant roles, including apprenticeship positions and opportunities earmarked for unemployed people.
The new HS2 Recruitment Hubs are co-located within the Washwood Heath, Birmingham Summer Row and Chelmsley Wood Job Centres – close to the three key sites where HS2 will be bolstering its workforce.
The Hubs will be used to advertise new jobs on the HS2 project and provide prospective candidates with the opportunity to meet face to face with recruiters.
West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street welcomed the investment and subsequent employment boost for the region.
He said: “I look forward to seeing local people right across our region continue to benefit from the apprenticeship and employment opportunities created from the development of this high-speed rail link between the West Midlands and London.
“It is a project that is set to boost economic growth here in the West Midlands in the months and years ahead.”
Helene Dearn, West Midland’s Group Director for DWP added: “These are exciting times for our Jobcentres across the West Midlands.
“The three dedicated Recruitment Hubs will facilitate recruitment for HS2 employers, supporting residents right across the region.
“I look forward to growing our relationship with HS2 and the variety of employers who make up their supply chain.
“It is vital we maximise these fantastic job opportunities for the citizens of the West Midlands, giving them the skills they need in the labour market now and for years to come.”
Visit hs2.org./uk careers for more information.
