CES gives disadvantaged teenagers chance to work

CES UK has been at the heart of helping teenagers struggling to reach their potential gain some valuable work experience in the aftermarket.

The member of The Parts Alliance’s Western Alliance has been working with Basetech Automotive Training Services in Liverpool, who run a classic car restoration programme for 14 to 18-year-olds.

Over the last 24 months, CES has helped more than 159 young people find suitable work opportunities through its vast network of independent garage contacts.

Peter Little, Business Development Manager for CES UK, said: “Some of the young people have had a difficult background and this scheme can make a real difference in improving their prospects.

“We were keen to support the initiative in a practical way. We meet the trainees and their parents face to face to learn something about them and we help to find suitable work experience placements among the 250 garages we supply in our region. It benefits both the garages and the trainees, who may subsequently be taken on as apprentices.”

Basetech was founded by Bob Croxton, who turned his own life around after serving time in prison for drug offences, and gives teenagers the opportunity to gain skills for future employment in the motor industry. It operates like a real garage using classic sports cars such as Ferraris, Alfa Romeos and Jaguars, plus hot rods and motorbikes to inspire and engage the trainees.

Croxton said: “I wanted to give young people a better chance of making the right choices through this training scheme. CES UK appreciates what we are trying to do and has been outstanding; we really appreciate their support.”