Affordable housing developer Lovell has achieved the Investors in Young People Accreditation, the only people management standard which focuses on an employer’s recruitment and retention of people aged between 18 and 24.

The achievement highlights Lovell’s successful work with apprentices and graduate trainees in Scotland and recognises the company as an employer of choice for young people.

Lovell regional director Alan Taylor, said: “Bringing a new generation into construction is crucial, not just for our own business, but for the industry as a whole. Our team takes huge satisfaction in recruiting talented young people and helping them fulfil their potential and we’re all thrilled to see our work acknowledged by this award.”

The accreditation followed a rigorous assessment of the way Lovell recruits young people, supports its young employees and helps them progress in their careers.

Peter Russian, chief executive of Investors in People Scotland, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Lovell, and I and the whole IIYP team would like to wholeheartedly congratulate them. The Investors in Young People framework not only recognises and supports organisations in the employment of young people, but marks them out as an employer of choice. I envisage that many more organisations will wish to follow in the footsteps of Lovell and demonstrate their commitment to young people by working with the Investors in Young People framework.”

Young people currently working with Lovell in Glasgow include 22-year-old graduate trainee Kerrie Lee and 18-year-old Peter Phinn who is working as a labourer on a new housing development in Shettleston in the city’s East End. Employees who have benefited from the company’s commitment to training include 27-year-old John Fitzsimmons who began his career as an apprentice with Lovell and is now working with the company as a qualified joiner.

Launched in July 2014, Investors in Young People originated through a key recommendation from the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, led by Sir Ian Wood. The accreditation is offered to all businesses across Scotland and exists to recognise and support organisations across Scotland in the employment of young people.