Having worked in the print sector for over 40 years, John’s working life mirrors the changes the sector has undergone in that time.
At the start of his career, John thought that printing would be an interesting choice and started as an apprentice straight from school, training on Heidelberg presses. There was no minimum wage in those days and he recalls he started on £2.50 per week. He realises now that on that pay he must have relied on his parents to support him.
During his five-year apprenticeship he trained as a printing press operator and did occasional composing too. Once qualified, he had to move for jobs at printing companies in England and Wales and, in the 1980s, went on to retrain on lithographic presses.
Supported by The Printing Charity
Now retired, the charity is helping John and his wife with financial assistance. A one-off grant has also helped with house repairs to replace a porch, and to fix the lock on the front door to make it more secure.
John and his wife say: “The charity’s help is fantastic and an absolute godsend helping us to keep going. We’re both very appreciative of the assistance and couldn’t believe it when we received a totally unexpected fuel subsidy from the charity to help with our heating bills during the ‘Beast from the East’ winter.”
Our friendly team is on hand at the end of the phone to help you and your family when life gets tough. Contact us for practical, emotional, and financial support by emailing support@theprintingcharity.org.uk or call us on 01293 542 820.