A new pre-employability programme is to launch in the Highlands to provide a pathway to support out-of-work young people in gaining a construction trade.
The access to trades initiative, which is being launched by The Highland Council and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), will provide a pathway for young people up to the age of 29 to enter the CITB’s Scottish Academy for Construction Opportunities (SACO).
CITB has appointed Barnardo’s Works to deliver the initiative on its behalf. The charity, which has had a specific focus on supporting people into the construction sector over the past 15 months, has had a 97% success rate in aiding young people into the industry and ensuring they remain there at the six month and beyond point.
Barnardo’s Works will prepare the young people for employment in construction through the delivery of SQA accredited training in skills, as well as behaviours and attitudes for work, and also how to manage their finances once in employment.
The charity will also help the young people prepare for their CSCS on screen test and support them to achieve their health and safety accreditation as well as providing insights into working life in construction through employer visits, talks, and activities; provide an individual training allowance of £65 per week to those eligible; supply basic PPE; offer all those on the course work experience; and provide mentorship.
Ian Hughes, CITB engagement director for Scotland, said, “With a demand in Scotland for almost 20,000 additional workers by 2027, it’s essential that we focus efforts on creating a strong people pipeline in construction. We cannot underestimate the challenge industry faces, which is why we are prioritising training that provides the skills to build the schools, roads, and infrastructure the country needs.
“Access to trades will play an instrumental role in this. It’s a fantastic initiative that CITB is delighted to support and work with Highland Council and Barnardo’s Works on. It presents a brilliant opportunity for young people who may have otherwise struggled to get into the industry. With guidance and support on navigating the workplace, this can be the crucial stepping stone needed for many young people to get into employment and do something they love.”
Councillor Ken Gowans, chair of The Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, added, “I am delighted that our employability service and the CITB have collaborated to develop this important new initiative to create pathways for young people who wish to work within the construction sector – an area where these is a considerable skills shortage. I am sure there will be many young people who are interested in a career within the industry but who may have experienced barriers such as lack of funding, lack of suitable qualification and low confidence. Access to trades will provide the skills, qualification and equipment required for their entry into the construction sector and support them into sustainable employment.”
For referrals to the programme, contact Darren Hamilton at Barnardo’s Works on 07590 086854.
