Clean sweep for Metro staff training.

METRO cleaners are being given extra training to make sure they deliver the best service.

In April, Connaught secured a multi-million pound contract to clean the entire Tyne & Wear Metro network for the next five years in a deal with Nexus, which owns, manages and is modernising the Metro in a pounds 300m programme.

And the firm is heavily investing in NVQ training for its workers.

More than 100 employees will be receiving training across six NVQ courses ranging from cleaning building interiors to courses on customer service and management.

Each training module will be tailored to the specific requirements of the contract so that passengers using the Metro and bus services travel in a clean, hygienic environment.

Managing director of Connaught Environmental, Darren Frost, said: "We want to empower our people to take responsibility for the platforms, carriages and depots they are cleaning.

"This training is also about encouraging employees to interact with the passengers and give out train information and respond to passenger enquiries. Our teams are ambassadors for Connaught and Nexus, not just cleaners."

The training is being delivered by CSM Consulting and will begin in August.

Workforce development consultant for CSM, Kevin McManus added: "This investment in training and development helps employees unlock their potential and gives them the skills, competence and confidence to develop in their careers and beyond.

"Our aim is to provide the most comprehensive training in the sector, so that they can continue to attract and retain highly motivated and committed employees.

"This is going to be an exciting scheme and it's great to be working with Nexus and Connaught."