Scaffolding project turns inmates into operatives

[YOUNG OFFENDERS are being given a second chance through a scaffolding initiative involving the Made Inside Britain project, a CISRS-approved training provider and NASC contractor members.

The scheme sees inmates at Thorn Cross, Lancaster Farm and Berwyn prisons undertake a five-day introductory scaffolding course delivered by Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training Ltd while awaiting release. Upon leaving prison suitable candidates are then matched with participating NASC contractor members for interviews, leading to full-time employment.

New Future Networks and Antz Junction offer support, guidance and mentoring to participating operatives and employers.

To date, more than 70 ex-offenders – or returning citizens – have passed through the scheme, taking up positions at NASC member companies including Abbi Access Services Ltd, Allied Scaffolding Ltd, BSL (Systems) Ltd, Connolly Scaffolding Ltd, Craven Scaffolding Ltd, Deva Scaffolding Ltd, Lyndon SGB and Summit Marine Scaffolding Ltd.

Rose System Scaffolding Ltd and Lea Scaffolding & Access Ltd have also signed up to offer employment opportunities to returning citizens and have recently completed the relevant risk assessments required to take part in the project.

The NASC aims to achieve similar employment successes through its Returning Citizens Scheme, through which it has partnered with a number of key stakeholders including HMP institutions, several charities and thirdparty mentoring services to promote the scaffolding industry as a career path for ex-offenders and develop a pipeline of referrals.

Fulcrum managing director Dave Abraham said: “This scheme simply requires a will to succeed: firstly, the returning citizens’ willingness to learn new skills and grasp a fantastic new career opportunity, and secondly the scaffolding employers’ willingness to provide these learners with a chance to thrive.

“I’m delighted to say that there’s been no shortage of willingness from all parties so far. We’re immensely proud to play a part in this story, providing young inmates with a five-day, hands-on programme where they receive an introduction to scaffolding, constructing lowlevel structures such as towers, independents and birdcages, and complete COTS and Level 1 health and safety courses.” NASC training officer Henry Annafi said: “We’re so pleased to see NASC members come together to give returning citizens both scaffolding skills and a chance of employment. I’d like to congratulate Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training Ltd and participating members on their success so far and also welcome the new trainee scaffolders into the industry.” “We’re looking to build on this initial momentum and are highlighting this and other similar initiatives around the UK to NASC members during our current round of regional meetings. The response has been excellent, there’s much more to come from us in this space.” q • For more on the NASC’s Returning Citizens Scheme visit scaffoldingcareers.nasc.org.uk/ returning-citizens/