Reflecting on 2020: Bethan Deakin, Port Operative Apprentice, Cardiff

Other Businesses

ABP Property

Our property division brings together an unrivalled land bank spanning 21 multi-modal locations around the country, with 960 hectares of port-based development land.

ABPmer

Drawing on 60 years of experience, ABP Marine Environmental Research (ABPmer) provides specialist marine environmental research and consultancy services.

UK Dredging

UK Dredging (UKD) operates the largest British-owned dredging fleet and specialises in the provision of reliable and cost effective port maintenance dredging services.

Did your work patterns change in 2020 because of the pandemic, and if yes, how?

Yes, my normal day to day changed as I was on furlough for 4 weeks and in this time I managed to complete all of my course work to a high standard. During my furlough, ABP topped up my wages to 100%, which meant I could easily feed my dog. I also received support in the form of regular phone calls from the Academy. ABP have also been great at providing Personal Protective Equipment, including facemasks, anti-bacterial and face shields. They also followed strict health and safety procedures and separated all staff into different messrooms in order to reduce spreading of the virus.

Were there any positive highlights for you in 2020?

I got a dog and a new car. I also feel like I grew as a person, in confidence, capability and communication skills. I also passed my apprenticeship successfully. During the pandemic, I have done quite a bit to look after my wellbeing, including exercising with my dog and listening to music. I also like to draw and I watch football to relax.

What are your biggest hopes for 2021 and beyond?

I really hope to secure a full-time job with ABP and to be able to purchase a house. I also hope that my car doesn’t break down and that my dog stops chewing the walls. Of course, like many people, I wish winning the lottery, making new friends and having a nice holiday were also on the cards.

Applications for ABP’s Apprenticeship Programme are open until Sunday 21st February. Find out more and apply here.