30 Oldham tenants join housing jobs scheme after careers event

More than 30 social housing tenants in Oldham have signed up for employment support after a careers event at First Choice Homes Oldham's Union Street offices. The 'Careers in Housing' event, which attracted around 100 attendees, was completely sold out and brought together tenants with job opportunities in the housing sector.

Housing associations Jigsaw, Great Places, and ForHousing joined FCHO in hosting the event, which aimed to connect local residents with careers they might not have known existed. Mark Harrison, FCHO's employment and skills manager, said the collaboration between Greater Manchester housing providers could improve lives across the region, not just in Oldham.

The event highlighted a clear pathway from tenant to employee, with South Chadderton resident Billie-Jo Wareing sharing her success story. After completing a two-year apprenticeship with FCHO and achieving a distinction, she secured a permanent role as a home ownership administrator. 'Working at FCHO has been the best job I have had,' Wareing said.

The careers event also reinforced an important message for social housing tenants: you can both rent from and work for your housing provider. With 30 new sign-ups for employment services, the event has opened doors for Oldham residents looking to build careers in housing while maintaining their homes.