As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2021 Peter Gibson, Member of Parliament for Darlington met with apprentice, Chris Hall From Darlington Building Society.
Chris explained that he had joined Darlington Building Society as an Apprentice in September 2020 and was really enjoying the role. Following on from being made redundant last year, Chris was successfully recruited as a Customer Service Assistant Apprentice at Darlington Building Society.
Chris’ role is quite varied and includes answering customer queries, or getting information for them if he can’t help; assisting with setting up both in-branch and online accounts; dealing with the bereavement process if someone dies; customer transfers to other bank accounts; and setting up powers of attorney.
Chris said: “I’m really enjoying the training, and Darlington Building Society is a great company to work with.
“From day one, everyone was so supportive, and there’s always someone to speak to if you have any issues.”
Andrew Craddock, Chief Executive of Darlington Building Society, said: “The theme of National Apprenticeship Week this year is “Build The Future” and that’s exactly what we are doing at Darlington Building Society, by investing in eight apprentices despite the global economic turmoil caused by the pandemic.
“We passionately believe in growing our own talent – whether it is recruiting bright new people, or developing and promoting existing staff – and it is paying dividends in the high levels of customer care we are able to offer our members.
“The fact we have recently been given an “outstanding” two-star rating by Best Companies – reflecting strong staff engagement and satisfaction – is further evidence that our continuing investment in people is being recognised.”
Peter Gibson, Member of Parliament for Darlington, said: “It was great to meet Chris and find out more about the work that he is doing as part of his apprenticeship with Darlington Building Society. It was clear from Chris’ enthusiasm that he is enjoying the role.
“Apprenticeships are increasingly becoming a more popular option for young people to get into the workplace. Apprenticeships give individuals the opportunity to earn whilst they learn, access specialised training and qualifications in a sectors of their choice and should be considered as a genuine alternative to university.
“In addition to apprenticeships the Government has announced more than 120,000 jobs for young people which will be created through Government’s flagship Kickstart Scheme.”
To find out more about apprenticeships available in Darlington visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship or the Kickstart Scheme visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme.