Translink is committed to the promotion of social inclusion and equal opportunities in Northern Ireland, and maximising the progression into the workforce of people who are long term unemployed and those leaving education and training.
In support of this commitment, Translink adopted the Buy Social approach for their Security Guarding contract, which required the contractor to ensure that a minimum of 40% of new personnel engaged on the contract are either long term unemployed or leaving education/training. These people are known as New Entrant Trainees.
The contract was awarded to Sword Security (NI) Ltd. and commenced on 1st August 2017.
Translink and Sword Security (NI) Ltd. have invested significant time and effort in developing the skills of New Entrant Trainees in order for them to be eligible for promotion opportunities available within the contract and organisation. This includes training on the use of technology and first line maintenance for equipment at key Translink facilities.
The roles offered are interactive to enable them to build essential transferrable skills in the workplace. Sword Security (NI) Ltd. prides themselves on promoting from within the organisation, leading to a return on investment and value for money, with the personal well-being of employees at the forefront of the workplace culture.
In the first year of the contract, Translink and Sword Security (NI) Ltd. exceeded their target recruiting 42% of new personnel from the “New Entrant Trainee” market, delivering measurable social value and contributing to Government objectives.
The collaborative working partnership Translink and Sword Security (NI) Ltd have developed has contributed to 42% of the New Entrant Trainees continuing to work on the contract today, two years later, having been given the support and training to develop in their role. This has contributed to reducing the number of people who are long-term unemployed or have limited work experience in Northern Ireland, and given them the opportunity to be part of delivering a vital public service to the people of Northern Ireland.
One New Entrant Trainee, Sharon, hadn’t ever worked in the security industry before but has found she is able to work her new job around her family commitments:
“I’m new to the security industry and only got my SIA licence in October 2018. I really enjoy working for Sword Security (NI) Ltd. and everything is perfect. I wanted to get my SIA licence as I am a single parent to 4 children and the hours I work fit in with my life.
I enjoy working on the Translink contract and love the people I work with at Translink. I feel part of the team.”
