Bryson Recycling

Bryson Recycling’s story

An Abergele-based recycling company says apprenticeships are vital to ensure a sustainable workforce by developing skills and investing in future talent.

Bryson Recycling, the UK’s largest social enterprise recycler, expanded into North Wales in 2005 with the aim of improving responsible waste management and offering long-term employment to staff of all ages from a variety of backgrounds.

Recruitment drives supporting the community

Dan McCabe, Site Supervisor at Bryson Recycling, said; “The fact that we can give back to the community by offering people a second chance is a real bonus to our team.

“Our apprentices need to have a technical understanding of everything from appropriate waste drainage regulations to execute hazardous waste disposal. This kind of practical, methodical knowledge is vital and something you just can’t get without the tailored training an apprenticeship offers.”

Andrew, 51, from Kinmel Bay in North Wales, found a new start at Bryson Recycling, and is now studying towards his Level 4 qualification in Waste Management.

Andrew is dyslexic and has a sight impairment, meaning he’s blind in his left eye but that didn’t stop him.

Dan continued: “Andrew has become a real asset to the team, and it’s been really refreshing to have such a keen apprentice rise through the ranks and progress so quickly. He’s great with customers and really understands the technical side of things, offering guidance to new members of staff whenever needed.

“When we talk about our apprentices many people assume we’re talking about school leavers, and so we’re always quick to point out that apprentices can be any age. Andrew’s life experience helps him relate to customers and staff, and finding his career later in life seems to have given him a burst of motivation to work hard and prove that he can achieve anything he puts his mind to.”

Taking the next step with an apprenticeship

Andrew said: “The work is challenging, but always interesting – alongside customer service and team management, I also have to stay up to speed with legislation on responsible waste management, destinations for waste disposal, and regulations for sorting hazardous waste.

“As part of my progression through my apprenticeship, I’m taking on supervisor responsibilities whenever my supervisor is off duty, and I’m hoping to progress to a full-time supervisor soon.”