CITB Supports Employer-Led Construction Training for Scotland Prison Leavers 

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is collaborating with Amey and the Scottish Prison Services (SPS) on a two-year initiative to develop a training solution aimed to place and retain construction workers back into the industry upon release from prison.

The Unlocking Future Connections programme was launched in February through CITB’s Industry Impact Fund (IIF).

CITB awarded £245,000 in funding to ensure the programme became a reality. Since the programme’s successful pilot at HMP Inverness, Unlocking Future Connections is now being expanded to 15 prisons across Scotland.

Earlier this month, the programme was shortlisted for Most Innovative Transport Project of the Year and Excellence in Social and Community Value, at the Scottish Transport Awards.

Employer-Led Construction Training

Following its expansion, the programme 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.

Billy Baxter, CITB, commented: “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.

“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.

“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Amey and the Scottish Prison Services as we expand the project across other prisons in Scotland.”

Pathways into Employment

Sarah Angus, Director of Policy for the Scottish Prison Service, added: “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.”

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