A prison-based training programme designed to help people leaving custody secure jobs in construction is being rolled out across Scotland following a successful pilot and support from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

The Unlocking Future Connections initiative, delivered by CITB, infrastructure consultancy and services provider Amey and the Scottish Prison Service, aims to create a supported route into employment for prison leavers while helping construction employers address skills shortages.

The two-year programme launched in February with funding from CITB’s Industry Impact Fund (IIF), which awarded £245,000 to support its development and expansion.

Following a pilot at HMP Inverness, the initiative is now being extended to 15 prisons across Scotland. Participants receive training to prepare them for careers in the highways and construction sectors and, on completion, are guaranteed interviews with construction employers.

The programme seeks to address two challenges simultaneously: to provide employers with access to a broader talent pool; and help former prisoners secure sustainable employment after release.

Project partners say the initiative could also deliver wider social benefits by reducing reoffending rates and supporting economic participation among people leaving custody.

Recognition in awards

The programme has already attracted industry recognition, having recently been shortlisted for Most Innovative Transport Project of the Year and Excellence in Social and Community Value at the Scottish Transport Awards.

CITB’s Billy Baxter said the scheme demonstrates how the industry can respond to workforce shortages while creating opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.

“It’s great to be supporting such a vital project that is helping employers to meet their recruitment needs, whilst providing those leaving custody with the skills they need to meet industry standards and excel in a construction career,” he said.

Baxter highlighted the growing demand for skilled workers in Scotland, particularly in infrastructure.

“Infrastructure is the main driver of construction growth in Scotland, but skills gaps are causing delays to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and projects such as the A9 dualling will require significant new labour,” he said.

Roddy Clark, business director for Scotland and Northern Ireland at Amey, said the programme was already delivering positive outcomes for participants.

“We have been pleased to see the success stories emerging across Scotland’s prisons as individuals gain new skills, confidence and opportunities for a fresh start,” he said.

Clark added that the initiative could help reduce pressure on public finances by supporting people into long-term employment and lowering the likelihood of reoffending.

Reintegration help

Sarah Angus, director of policy at the Scottish Prison Service, said employment remained one of the most important factors in helping people successfully reintegrate into society after release.

“We know that people leaving custody can face significant barriers to securing employment, which is often a key factor in reoffending,” she said.

“Through Unlocking Future Connections and our partnership with Amey, supported by CITB, we are strengthening pathways into employment and ensuring those leaving custody can access meaningful, sustainable opportunities.”

CITB said the project reflects the objectives of its Industry Impact Fund, which supports employer-led initiatives designed to tackle workforce and skills challenges across the construction sector.