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Life’s a gas for former Eaga employee

Neil Sidebottom - Life's a gas
Written by Roma Publications

Neil Sidebottom  - Life's a gas

A former gas engineer has put his own training to good use, by instructing the next generation of heating and boiler experts.

Neil Sidebottom worked for energy firm Eaga for 12 years as an engineer and, latterly, a trainer, before being made redundant in 2012. Now, with help from a trust fund which supports former employees, he has established his own training business; Junction 31 Gas Skills Centre, at Junction 31 off the M62, near Castleford, West Yorkshire.

The Eaga Trust – formed to promote employee ownership and engagement – is using some of its funds to help former employees retrain or set up their own businesses. It offers its members a range of benefits, including funding work-related training, self-development courses as well as start-up loans and guidance for those planning to start their own, employee-owned businesses.

Junction 31 was set up with the help of a start-up loan from the Eaga Trust. They offer a range of ACS gas assessments, hot water and bespoke training courses and assessments, through day, evening and weekend courses.

“To apply to the Trust, I had to set out my business case, but it was a very straightforward and efficient process and I was able to get approval and sign a contract,” said Neil.

“It was really quick and has helped me get the business going. It’s taken a lot of time and money to get the training centre ready, but it’s been worth it and now I’m up and running.”

Clare Mattison, Ambassador for the Eaga Trust, said: “Neil is exactly the sort of person the Trust was formed to help and we wish him every success now and in the future.”

For further information about training at Junction 31, call 01977 513578 or email info@junction31gas.co.uk.

Meanwhile, anyone who thinks they may be eligible for Trust membership should register at www.eagatrust.com.

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Roma Publications