South Western Railway (SWR) is delighted to announce Ashley Redding as the latest successful recruit from The Prince’s Trust Get Into programme.
Ashley, 21, joins SWR as a Gateline Assistant at Havant station, near Portsmouth, where he greets passengers and helps check their tickets as well as provide them with the latest service information. In his own words, Ashley talks about how the Get Into programme has changed him, his new responsibilities, as well as his future aspirations working for SWR:
SWR is working in partnership with The Prince’s Trust to help inspire young people aged 18-30 not in employment, education or training find new horizons and kickstart their careers through 'Get Into', its four-week customer service training programme.
The programme aims to develop young people’s team working, communications and conflict resolution skills, as well as build their confidence through tailored workshops. They also have an opportunity to put what they’ve learned into practice with two weeks work experience at some of SWR’s stations.
Five graduates from previous programmes have successfully found employment in various roles across SWR’s business, including Harrison Jones, a ticket inspector, and Te-Jay Lawrence, a train dispatcher, who both work at London Waterloo station.
Ashley Redding, Gateline Assistant at Havant station, said:
"Things have changed for me since I’ve begun working for SWR - it’s made my life happier. My job has helped me learn new skills, build up my confidence and to believe in myself.
"Helping customers and keeping them happy every day is the highlight of my job. Customers saying thank you when you’ve done your best to help them puts a really big smile on my face."
Glen Willie, SWR's Inclusion and Diversity Manager, said:
"Ashley’s success shows how valuable The Prince’s Trust is for young people starting out, and it’s an absolute pleasure to see another graduate from the Get Into programme working for SWR.
"His enthusiasm and energy immediately stood him out from the rest, as well as his hard work and dedication. He’s approached his role as a Gateline Assistant to an extremely high standard and has impressed many colleagues across the business.
"I, along with every other colleague that has had the pleasure of meeting Ashley, wish him the very best of luck as he starts his new journey with SWR.”
James Tresize, Operations Manager at The Prince's Trust in Southampton, said:
"Ashley landed his dream job working for SWR by grasping the opportunity and support provided by The Prince’s Trust Get Into programme. His success is thoroughly deserved.
"Ashley hasn’t had the easiest of backgrounds, but he is living proof that if you have a goal, work hard and welcome a little help along the way, then anything is possible. Ashley’s positive and motivated attitude is inspiring, he has been an absolute pleasure throughout the programme.
"Everyone from The Prince’s Trust wish him every success in his new dream role!"
The fourth programme will commence in October, based at SWR’s Southampton headquarters. Prospective candidates can find out more about the scheme on The Prince's Trust website or by ringing 0800 842 842.
