Workplace design specialist Space Solutions has enrolled in a scheme enabling young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain valuable work experience with their firm.

The NETworks programme – run by national children's charity Barnardo's Scotland – involves young people from Edinburgh aged 16-24 spending up to 26 weeks working within their chosen sector with the aim of finding secure employment.

Space Solutions took on two male trainees for the initial 11 week work placement at their relocations and operations division The Hub in Livingston.

Derek Binnie, director of Space Solutions, said: "We're delighted to be involved with this scheme as it is important for successful businesses to give something back to support the next generation of workers.

"The two placements have been really successful and we hope that we are helping them encourage and strengthen their skills."

After an initial two week induction the NETworks trainees undertake an 11 week work placement and this can lead into a further 13 week wage employment.

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The programme – which was started in Edinburgh in October last year – has proved enormously successful providing young people with an opportunity to work with some of the best companies in the city.

As Scotland’s biggest independent expert in helping businesses manage changes within the workplace, Space Solutions design, build, fit out, refurbish and relocate modern and productive business environments. The firm operates UK-wide from bases in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Livingston.

Helen Brown, employer liaison officer for Barnardo’s NETworks, said: "Space Solutions has been brilliant to work with and they were really enthusiastic to get on board with this programme.

"I know that they have also been in contact with other companies about the service which is fantastic as we have also been eager to spread the word about what we do and raise our profile.

"Our ultimate goal is that the young people move into sustainable employment."

One of the participants who worked with Space Solutions has been asked to continue beyond the initial 11 week work placement.

The 18-year-old will now spend an additional 13 week supported wage employment with the firm.

Helen added: "He has really loved being a part of the Space Solutions team. He has enjoyed the experience from day one and has fitted in well. The feedback from his manager has also been very positive.

"When he first started he was quite quiet but he has now come out of his shell – you can see he is flourishing. He has certainly risen to the challenge and has worked particularly hard to impress his manager and achieve his goal of securing the 13 week contract. We are hopeful that the valuable experience gained at Space Solutions will help him secure a permanent job."

(GK)