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North Ayrshire Council launches Future Trades Programme

The aim is to address local skills shortages in construction and boost job prospects for young people.

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North Ayrshire Council launches Future Trades Programme
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North Ayrshire Council has set up the Future Trades Programme to help tackle youth unemployment in the area. 

The council’s employability partner CEIS Ayrshire is running the programme, with funding from the local authority and the Robertson Trust. 

The aim is to address local skills shortages in construction and boost job prospects for young people.

The six-week programme includes practical experience in bricklaying, plastering, plumbing, joinery and painting and decorating, along with relevant qualifications and confidence building. 

Everyone taking part receives ongoing one-to-one support to help find work, apprenticeships or further training.

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So far, 24 young people have completed the training. 

All gained their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, which gives them access to building sites and information about job opportunities. 

Several participants have had job interviews, work placements and offers of employment with local firms.

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Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy at North Ayrshire Council, said: “This programme has offered young people an opportunity to thrive in the construction sector by learning skills such as safe tool handling and site awareness. 

“The support offered through our own Employability experts and partners at CEiS Ayrshire and The Robertson Trust will stand these people in good stead as they progress with their future learning and work lives.

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“It is fantastic that we are able to give young people the tools to succeed while also helping to meet the needs of employers here in North Ayrshire. 

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“I would like to thank everyone involved – including the local businesses that donated tools, PPE and construction materials to the initiative to help make the learning enjoyable and meaningful.”

The council is looking for new partners to support the third group of trainees by providing materials, tools, PPE, site visits, work experience, jobs or apprenticeships. 

Gurney added: “If you run a business locally and you are in a position to help, you will be helping to shape the next generation of skilled construction workers and supplying the industry with employees they desperately need.”

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