The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Scottish Prison Services (SPS) have announced a two year scheme to train more workers after their prison sentences
The Unlocking Future Connection programme will see ex-prisoners given the tools and skills needed to become construction workers.
The pilot programme was launched in February and utilised funds from the CITB’s Industry Impact Fund (IIF).
The programme is in collaboration with Amey Ltd
The CITB has awarded £245,000 to fund the initiative through the IIF. The pilot programme took place at HMP Inverness, and is now being expanded to 15 Scottish prisons.
The programme will now focus on creating pathways into employment in the highways and construction sectors for ex-prisoners, and will aid employers to access a more diverse talent pool, while also helping the skills shortage.
Besides the benefit for the construction industry, the programme also intends to reduce the number of reoffenders and deliver wider social and economic benefits.
Due to the success of the pilot, the programme was shortlisted for both the Most Innovative Transport Project of the Year and Excellence in Social and Community Value awards at the Scottish Transport Awards.
Billy Baxter, CITB, said: “It’s great to be supporting such a vital project that is helping employers to meet their recruitment needs, whilst providing those leaving custody with the skills they need to meet industry standards and excel in a construction career.
“Infrastructure is the main driver of construction growth in Scotland, but skills gaps are causing delays to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and projects such as the A9 dualling will require significant new labour.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Amey and the Scottish Prison Services as we expand the project across other prisons in Scotland.”
CITB have several initiatives to address the skills crisis
Earlier this year, the CITB launched the Accelerated Apprenticeships programme to tackled regional skills shortages. The programme aims to deliver 1,680 new apprenticeships over four years in professions such as bricklaying, carpentry, and roofing.
The programme will also see more skills hubs and colleges established.
Tim Balcon, CEO at CITB, said: “Accelerated Apprenticeships are a key part of that shift – helping more people gain the skills they need more quickly, and in the areas where they are most needed.
“Establishing regional Accelerated Apprenticeship programmes is a vital next step in developing our partnerships with mayors and local authorities and exemplifies the collaborative efforts required to address regional skills shortages in construction.”
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