A new initiative in North Lanarkshire is giving unemployed young people a pathway into construction through practical, real-world experience.

The Community Construction Partnership Programme is running an 11-week pilot for 15 young jobseekers, blending employability training with hands-on learning on site.

Coordinated by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), the partnership brings together North Lanarkshire Council, Routes to Work, New College Lanarkshire and industry partners including housebuilder Cruden and CCG (Scotland).

Anna Baird, careers adviser at SDS, said: "All of the young people have actively been looking for work but taking that first step can be difficult without experience.

"They just need some extra support to build their confidence, gain experience, make those early connections and learn more about the opportunities available."

The programme is being showcased at the start of Scottish Careers Week, which brings educators, employers, organisations and communities together to inspire people across Scotland to explore their future.

CCG is offering each participant three days of on-site experience, enabling them to apply classroom learning in a live construction environment.

Lynn Stodart, Group HR Manager at CCG (Scotland), said: "At CCG, we're passionate about creating opportunities that help young people develop the skills and confidence to pursue lasting careers in construction.

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"Through our delivery of the 100-home Dunottar Avenue development in Coatbridge, we're proud to work alongside Skills Development Scotland and other partners to provide practical experience in a live construction environment, showcasing the diverse career opportunities available and inspiring the next generation of talent across North Lanarkshire."

Participants also receive careers guidance, tailored CV support and mock interview practice.

Cruden has provided industry insight and supported the design of the programme.

Michael Palethope, Community Benefits Manager at Cruden, said: "We wanted to give more young people the opportunity to explore careers in construction to gain valuable experience of the industry.

"We approached Skills Development Scotland with that vision, recognising the value of bringing together their expertise and our industry knowledge.

"It's been fantastic to see so many partners come on board and work together to create meaningful opportunities for young people in North Lanarkshire."

Kayla Walton, from Cumbernauld, is one of the young people taking part. She said: "I liked the idea of practical work, being hands-on and coming home dirty every day.

"I've learned that to work in construction you need to work hard and be determined – if you do this, you'll get to where you want to be.

"I think I'd like to do joinery and get experience of fitting doors and windows.

"Once I finish the course, I'm hoping to get a job and start earning money."

Another participant, Harper Crooks, from Newmains, said: "I wanted to take part to get my CSCS qualifications and learn more about the health and safety aspects to help me in my future career.

"I've learned about lots of different construction careers. There's something different every day, from bricklaying and joinery to project surveying. Ideally, I'd like to be a bricklayer, it really appeals to me, and I have enjoyed learning about it."

The programme is being delivered at New College Lanarkshire's Coatbridge campus with support from multiple organisations.

Routes to Work is helping participants secure their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, while The King's Trust is funding personal protective equipment.

APEX Training is running a practical construction workshop, and Developing the Young Workforce Lanarkshire and East Dunbartonshire has provided resources to help participants understand their payslips.

Other local partners and employers will contribute to STEM activities and industry inspiration sessions throughout the programme.