Unlocking Future Connections, a two-year initiative launched in February through CITB’s Industry Impact Fund (IIF); developed by integrated infrastructure consultancy and operations partner, Amey and the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), was shortlisted for Most Innovative Transport Project of the Year and was highly commended for its nomination for Excellence in Social and Community Value, at the Scottish Transport Awards on 11 June.
While the programme did not take home an award this time, it was a fantastic achievement for the programme to be recognised as it continues to support people in custody, helping them convert construction experience into sustained employment.
CITB awarded £245,000 to ensure the programme became a reality, reinforcing our commitment to funding innovative, employer-led projects that tackle the construction industry’s most significant workforce and skills challenges.
Since the programme’s successful pilot at HMP Inverness, Unlocking Future Connections is now being expanded to 15 prisons across Scotland.
It will continue to focus on creating a clear, supported pathway into employment across the highways and construction sectors. It aims to help employers access a broader and more diverse talent pool, while addressing critical skills shortages.
By supporting individuals into long-term employment, the initiative also intends to contribute to reduced reoffending and deliver wider social and economic benefits alongside industry impact.
Those enrolled on the programme who pass the training delivered to them will also receive guaranteed interviews with construction employers.
When the programme launched, Roddy Clark, Business Director for Amey in Scotland & Northern Ireland, said:
“We are excited to launch this initiative, and the trust placed in us by SPS and CITB is a testament to Amey’s strong track record in delivering effective programmes that reduce reoffending.
“We look forward to seeing the success stories that will emerge across Scotland’s prisons as individuals gain new skills, confidence and opportunities for a fresh start.
“This programme not only helps close the critical skills gap facing our industry, but it also reduces the wider burden on the taxpayer by supporting people into sustainable employment and lowering the risk of reoffending.
“We are proud to play our part in creating safer, stronger communities across Scotland.”
Sarah Angus, Director of Policy for the Scottish Prison Service said:
“We know that people leaving custody can face significant barriers to securing employment, which is often a key factor in reoffending.
“Across our prisons, we provide a range of training and employability programmes to help individuals in our care gain new skills, broaden their experience and better prepare for the world of work.
“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.
“By supporting people into employment, we can help them make positive, lasting changes to their lives and contribute to safer communities across Scotland.”
Find out more about CITB’s Industry Impact Fund here.
