The YouthBuild programme bridges this gap by offering disadvantaged 16-24-year-olds the opportunity to gain skills, experience and confidence to secure a career in construction. Since its inception in 2007, the YouthBuild programme has helped more than 2000 young people into employment in the construction sector. These are individuals who, without a chance like this, might never have been able to demonstrate their potential.

Delivered by Action for Children, one of Scotland’s largest children’s charities, it allows young people to secure skills and qualifications, including:  
    • REHIS Health and Safety - SCQF Level 5
    • CSCS Green Labourer Card
    • Safe Manual Handling training
    • Site Safety Awareness
    • Safe Use of Small Plant and Tools
    • UKATA Asbestos Awareness CAT A
    • Vehicle Reverse Marshall Certification
    • PASMA Mobile Access Tower training

How can you get involved?

The most impactful way to support our young people is by offering two-week work trials. These trials are a unique opportunity for businesses to meet enthusiastic, work-ready candidates at no cost — we pay the young person for the full trial period.

It will not only help you save on recruitment costs during an ongoing labour shortage but also introduce truly fresh and motivated individuals into your workforce. For young people who prove themselves to be a great fit, these trails can be pathways to a full-time career. 

If a work placement isn’t possible, there are several other ways to support the programme:

    • Site visits: Inspire young people by showing them the real-world work environment.
    • Material donations: Help hone practical skills by donating materials or tools including plant (mini diggers, drivers, chippers, skips); hand tools (spades, rakes, trowels, spirit levels, wheelbarrows), landscaping (mono-block, bricks, slabs, type 1 & 2 cement) and decorating materials (paint, groundsheets, paint utensils, brushes). 
    • Industry talks: Share your expertise and motivate the cohort with insights from your company or experience. 

Join us to help build positive futures 

Working with Action for Children will meaningfully help young people and demonstrate your business’ commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Join us in building positive futures for young people by getting in touch with Sophie Gaft the Progression and Outcomes Coordinator at: sophie.gaft@actionforchildren.org.uk or 07779901595. 

The Scottish Housing News Charity Spotlight feature highlights the vital work of charities across Scotland each Friday. To include your local charity, whether housing-related or not, send your story and images to us at newsdesk@scottishnews.com.