A new pilot scheme has been launched at Edinburgh College (Granton Campus) to try and tackle the country's building skills shortages as well as helping young people get into work.

While the home building industry is a major employer in Scotland, skill shortages have been identified as a major barrier to its ability to increase production as the economy and housing market recovers.

The 'Get into Home Building' scheme is a five-week pre-apprenticeship programme which has been designed to help 14 unemployed 16 to 25-year-olds gain experience in a number of trade disciplines. These include brickwork, carpentry, painting and decorating, and plastering, as well as an opportunity for "hands on" experience with some of Scotland's leading home builders. Upon successful completion of the scheme, those who are interested in pursuing a full apprenticeship are then guaranteed an interview with participating home builders.

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The Prince's Trust course, which is being supported by Homes for Scotland and Edinburgh College, is being funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Philip Hogg, Chief Executive of Homes for Scotland said: "There is an urgent requirement to address the skills shortages which exist and develop new routes into our industry if we are to be able to deliver the many thousands of new homes our country needs.

"We believe that apprenticeships remain the cornerstone of trade skills development, helping to build a more successful Scotland. But positive action needs to be taken now if we are to make any significant impact on our future labour market.

"We are delighted with the support home builders have given to the pilot and, if successful, look forward to it being rolled out throughout Scotland to offer a taste of the many different career paths our industry offers."

Miller Homes is one of the home builders supporting the programme and Alan Cadenhead, HR Manager at Miller Homes, said: "As an industry we have a responsibility to provide opportunities for young people and as well as helping them recognise the benefits of a career in home building, this initiative will also support us in developing a well-trained, sustainable workforce."

(JP/IT)