Step into housing with Eastlight’s resident Work Experience Programme
Take your first step towards a new career with our Work Experience Programme.
Thinking about a career in housing? Looking for a way to build new skills in a friendly, supportive environment? Our Dale Butcher Work Experience Programme could be the perfect first step.
Whether you’re curious about how homes are repaired and built, interested in understanding how housing services work behind the scenes, or simply keen to try something new, the programme offers a practical and welcoming introduction to the world of social housing. No previous experience is needed – just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Why join?
Named in honour of former Eastlight Board Member and Vice Chair, Dale Butcher, the programme offers the chance to spend time with different teams across Eastlight, gaining a real insight into how safe, comfortable homes are created and looked after.
Participants benefit from:
- Hands‑on learning with a dedicated mentor who will support you throughout your placement
- Access to short courses and e‑learning to grow your knowledge, skills and confidence
- A fully funded entry‑level Chartered Institute of Housing qualification (for those aged 18 and over)
- All travel and food costs covered
- A Certificate of Achievement presented by Dale Butcher
Last year, resident Wendy Harris, from Hatfield Peverel, completed the programme and described it as the highlight of her week.
Wendy’s journey: from first‑day nerves to new possibilities
When Wendy applied for the programme, she was looking for a fresh start. After a long career teaching piano, health challenges meant she needed to explore a completely different path. Curious about housing and inspired by her lifelong interest in DIY, she took a chance and applied.
She remembers the early days vividly. “I was terribly nervous on my first day and felt out of my depth,” she said. “But everyone was so patient, kind and accommodating. There were smiles everywhere.”
As she settled in, Wendy quickly found herself learning new things and working in ways she hadn’t imagined. “Before I knew it, I was sitting at a desk with a laptop and two screens. I never expected to see myself in that kind of environment – it felt like I’d achieved the impossible.”
Supported by colleagues across Eastlight, she spent time with our Assets and Development teams, gaining first‑hand experience of how homes are repaired, improved and built. She visited building sites at different stages, saw how solar panels and heating systems are installed and learned what needs to be done before properties can be re‑let.
“I got to see the grassroots of it all,” she said. “It was inspiring to understand how hard everyone works for residents.”
The confidence boost was transformative. “It was the highlight of my week. I felt part of a team, and it didn’t even feel like going to work – it was fun,” she said. The experience also opened doors she hadn’t expected: “It made me seriously consider a future career in housing, building or even retrofitting. There are so many possibilities.”
Her message to anyone thinking of applying is simple: “Absolutely do it. You’ll get all the support you need – and you’ll be amazed at what you learn.”
The programme
- Time commitment: Four hours, on one day per week
- Duration: Around six months
- Location: Eastlight House, Charter Way, Braintree, CM77 8FG – plus site visits
- Support: A dedicated mentor throughout your placement.
Important dates
- 2–20 March: Register your interest
- 23–30 March: Interviews and selection
- 6 April: Programme starts.
This opportunity is open to Eastlight residents and members of their household.
Ready to take the first step towards a new opportunity?
