Several apprentices secure with Middlesbrough firm despite Carillion collapse

A local window and door specialist has secured employment contracts for its team of apprentices, despite the recent collapse of Carillion.

ERW Ltd, based in Middlesbrough, currently has three apprentices with Carillion and was due to employ a further three when news of the collapse broke.

Following the confirmation of Carillion’s liquidation, which effectively terminated employment contracts held with the firm, the timber window and door manufacturer has secured all of its apprentice’s contracts for them to continue with their employment.

Speaking about the firm’s apprentices, Phil Tye, ERW’s operations manager, said: “Immediately after the announcement from Carillion we held a meeting with our current apprentices and we have made a commitment to them that regardless of the position with Carillion, we will secure their future training and employment with ERW.”

The family-owned company was established in 1979, and provides bespoke timber frame windows and doors to homes and businesses across the North of England.

Tye added: “As a company we have a long term commitment to all of our staff, including our young apprentices. We are keen to invest in the younger generation with a view of them going into full-time employment within the business once they have completed their qualifications.”

ERW’s head of design and issuing, Jamie Dixon, is said to be a prime example of the team’s dedication to nurturing young talent.

After joining the company as an apprentice, Jamie completed his studies and is now a part of the senior management team and an integral part of the business.

It has been reported that up to 1,400 apprentices could be caught up in the collapse of Carillion and 19,500 workers around the country are facing an uncertain future because of the liquidation of the company, which was announced on Monday January 15.

Tye concluded: “It’s an uncertain and sad time for many young people in Teesside, and we will be doing what we can to support the younger generation in skilled trades like ours.

“We realise as a business, where a lot of the expertise and crafts skills are among the older workforce, we must invest in the younger generation for the traditional trades like ours to continue to survive.”

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