Project summary

Barnardo's Works Employability Training Service (ETS) delivers a CITB-funded mentoring and retention programme across Scotland, helping new entrants successfully start and sustain careers within the construction industry. Following the success of the programme, funding has been extended for a further year, enabling support for a total of 303 new entrants.

Drawing on extensive experience supporting individuals into employment, Barnardo's works closely with major construction employers and industry partners, including Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE), Balfour Beatty and Kier, as well as construction networks across the Highlands. These partnerships help create employment opportunities and provide the support needed for individuals to thrive in their new roles.

Balfour Beatty also collaborates with Barnardo's through its Community Benefit initiatives linked to the Scottish Prison Service. The programme recognises that securing employment is only the first step. Once participants enter work, Barnardo's provides ongoing mentoring and retention support through regular telephone and email contact, structured progress reviews and face-to-face visits at key stages of the employment journey. This personalised approach helps individuals overcome challenges, build confidence and remain engaged in their careers.

A key element of the programme is its commitment to developing supportive workplaces. Barnardo's offers mentor training to employers, supervisors and new managers, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to support new entrants effectively. This creates positive working environments that encourage long-term retention, progression and success. By combining personalised mentoring, employer engagement and strong industry partnerships, the programme is helping address construction skills shortages while supporting individuals to build sustainable careers and contribute to Scotland's growing construction workforce.