Construction work begins on ground-breaking training and accommodation centre

Salix Homes has started construction work on a cutting edge training and accommodation centre which will transform the lives of young people in Salford for the better.

The social housing provider is working alongside contractor Seddon to regenerate a disused hostel into a safe haven for 16 to 25 year olds to live in while they work, complete their education or undertake training.

This ground-breaking development is part of Salix Homes’ flagship scheme, dubbed the Salford Working Out Project, and will be the first of its kind in Greater Manchester and among only a handful in the country.

The site of the once-called Petrie Court, in Lower Kersal will be the first stage of this innovative project.

When the modernised and refurbished building opens – set to be next spring – Salix Homes will work alongside local skills and education providers to deliver training programmes and employment opportunities, as well as one-to-one support and coaching for its 14 residents.

Earlier this year the Salford Working Out Project received £1million funding from the Homes and Communities Agency to carry out the scheme, which is being match-funded by the housing provider.

Mike Wright, service director of Housing Choice at Salix Homes, said: “Our ground-breaking project aims to support young people who want to make a difference to their lives, but may face some barriers that prevents them from reaching those aspirations.

“We’re not just an organisation that creates homes, we have high ambitions and values to make a positive difference to the lives of our customers and we firmly believe this centre will improve the life chances – opening up a number of avenues for young people in the city.”

Nikki Waud, business development manager at Seddon: “We are thrilled to have been chosen by Salix Homes to help deliver this ambitious, state-of-the-art centre for young people in Salford. As a company Seddon is dedicated to delivering regeneration that makes a difference to people’s lives.”

It’s anticipated that residents will stay at the new facility for up to 12 months, after which Salix Homes will assist them into permanent accommodation, which will form the second phase of the project.

The new facility, which will be named over the coming months, will also include a gym and an ICT suite.