The Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership (LMP), in collaboration with the Council and local businesses, has officially opened a new Warehousing and Forklift Academy. The initiative is designed to provide residents with a direct pathway into the logistics sector through a week-long intensive training programme.

The academy is scheduled to run from 18 to 22 May 2026, with daily sessions held between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm at Workforce Training Services on the Antrim Road in Belfast. Funded by the Department for Communities (DfC), the programme is part of a wider effort to deliver local employment action plans that bridge the gap between jobseekers and growing industries.

Participants will engage in a curriculum that combines hands-on learning with accredited certifications. The training covers several vital industry areas, including:

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• Manual Handling and Health & Safety in the workplace

• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

• First Aid at Work and Customer Service Skills

• Employability support, including CV development and interview techniques

A key feature of the academy is the opportunity for candidates to undertake forklift licence training upon the successful completion of the initial programme. The final day includes a dedicated session where participants can interview with local logistics and warehousing employers.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, welcomed the launch: "This Academy is a fantastic opportunity for residents to gain practical skills, industry-recognised training and real support into employment. Through our Labour Market Partnership approach, we are working with local partners to remove barriers to work and create clear pathways into sustainable careers in growing sectors like warehousing and logistics."

Residents interested in joining this or future employment academies can find more information at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/employment-academies. Applications can be made directly to Workforce Training Services by emailing [email protected] or calling 028 9024 7016.

Local businesses interested in supporting the academy or advertising vacancies are invited to contact the Council's skills team at [email protected].