A new training initiative has been launched to help residents in Antrim and Newtownabbey kickstart careers in the thriving warehousing and logistics industry. The Warehousing and Forklift Academy, delivered by the local Labour Market Partnership (LMP) in collaboration with the Council, is designed to provide jobseekers with the exact skills local employers are looking for.

The programme will run from 18 to 22 May 2026 at Workforce Training Services in Belfast. Funded by the Department for Communities, the academy aims to remove barriers to employment by offering a mix of classroom learning and practical, hands-on experience.

Participants will gain several industry-recognised qualifications during the week, covering essential topics such as:

• Manual Handling and First Aid

• Workplace Health & Safety and COSHH

• Customer Service and Employability Skills

• Professional CV development and interview coaching In addition to the core training, those who complete the course will have the opportunity to undertake their forklift licence training. The week concludes with a special session where participants can put their new skills to the test in interviews with local logistics firms currently looking for staff.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said: "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."

The academy is open to local residents, and those interested in applying can contact Workforce Training Services on 028 9024 7016 or email info@workforceonline.org.

Further information on this and other upcoming employment academies can be found on the Council's website at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/employment-academies. Local businesses with current vacancies are also encouraged to get in touch with the skills team to see how they can benefit from the programme.