The five year project by Renfrewshire Council to upgrade tenants’ homes to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) saw 234 jobs created through contractors working on the programme.

More than 20 apprentices were also taken on, many of whom have gone on to permanent employment, and local young people have been given work experience placements.

Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan met with a group of apprentices who have been taken on by Keepmoat, one of the contractors working on the SHQS programme:

Councillor Macmillan said: “The SHQS programme has not only benefitted council tenants but has had a huge impact on wider communities. One of the key elements of the programme was that contractors were encouraged to provide employment and training opportunities for local people.

“As tackling youth unemployment is one of the key priorities for the council I am particularly pleased that so many young people have benefited from these opportunities. It was great to meet some of them face to face and hear how this programme has helped them get a foot on the career ladder. I wish them all the best in the future.”

Contractors working on SHQS were also required to commit to a range of community benefit initiatives which has included new communal kitchens in all Renfrewshire Council sheltered housing complexes, sponsorship of local youth football teams, football coaching to local schools, repairs or renovation to local nurseries, community centres and sports clubs, providing respite accommodation for tenants receiving upgrades.

Lorna Preston, customer relationship manager, said: “We are proud of the employment and development opportunities created through the five year SHQS partnership, especially the apprentice programme. After completing a 12 month training programme with Keepmoat, Daniel, Emma and Amy have all secured full-time permanent employment within the business and have each been promoted; this demonstrates our commitment to nurturing talent and supporting apprentices beyond their initial training.

“We consider our young apprentices to be our rising stars and are delighted that we were able to offer employment opportunities to young people in the local area.”

@RenCouncilNews