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Go on, then. Why did you go for a job in construction?

My wife wasn’t happy because she was working days and I was working all different shifts as a chef in a restaurant. We really didn’t get to see each other very often. She pushed me to get another job.

What do you like about the industry?

In the restaurant there was too much pressure and people shouting. Here there’s no pressure at all. They give you a job and you go and do your job.

How do you find your new colleagues?

The people here are friendly, all of them. At first I was thinking ‘what will it be like working with English’, but I really like it. Sometimes we go out together after work.

How did you get the job?

I heard about it through the job centre. ERP [Employment Regeneration Partnership] did an interview and test. I was accepted and went to college for two weeks. We did very basic plumbing, joinery. Gleeson did interviews and gave me a three-month contract.

What were you doing?

The first three months were labouring. They wanted to see if you were a good worker. After three months they gave me another contract.

How long is the training?

18 months. I started in January this year. I go once a month to college. We update my NVQ book and study other things like health and safety.

What sort of jobs do you do?

Painting, tiling, fixing doors. If there is something I don’t know how to do, my boss shows me how and I can do it myself the next time.

Will you continue in construction?

Yes it’s a job for the future. If I get my NVQ2 I can get more money. Maybe after three to five years I can go to Dubai where it’s very good money in construction.