McLaughlin and Harvey Invests in Apprenticeship Scheme

31 May 2021 at 16:35:14

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar welcomes McLaughlin & Harvey's investment of £37,000 to support a shared apprenticeship program which will be delivered in partnership with Western Isles social enterprise Adhartas.

McLaughlin & Harvey began construction on a 52-bed care home, 50 extra-care units and the infrastructure for 74 houses at Goathill Road, Stornoway in July 2019. 

Through the shared apprenticeship program apprentices will begin their training with McLaughlin & Harvey, and will be transferred to a local contractor upon the conclusion of the Goathill Road Care Home project.

The apprentices will be employed by Adhartas who will take all HR and payroll responsibility.

Adhartas Board Member, Cllr Neil Mackay said: "The construction industry in the Western Isles is crying out for an injection of new skilled workers. The shared apprenticeship program will allow McLaughlin & Harvey and their subcontractors to engage with the Western Isles workforce. Successful apprentices will be given a unique opportunity to work in a variety of construction settings for two separate contractors.

Adhartas Chair, Cllr Paul Steele said: "It is fantastic to see a large mainland-based company such as McLaughlin & Harvey give back to the Western Isles in this manner. The Goathill Road Care Home project will help revolutionise care services on the Isle of Lewis which alongside the shared apprenticeship program will ensure that McLaughlin & Harvey have a lasting positive impact on the islands." 

Robbie Clark, Operations Director at McLaughlin & Harvey commented: "We are thrilled to be able to partner with Adhartas in the employment of apprentices at our Goathill Road Care Home project. At McLaughlin & Harvey, we are committed to investing in the future leaders of our industry, as well as leaving a positive legacy in every town we work in."

Iain Macmillan, Chair of HHP said: "We are delighted to see further opportunities being provided for our young people through our partnership with the Comhairle on this hugely ambitious project.  We thank McLaughlin & Harvey for their commitment to working with us and Adhartas to deliver these exciting apprenticeship opportunities.  This continues our ongoing commitment to work with others to develop the local workforce."

As part of a two-day visit to Stornoway Gillian Pettigrew, Group Community Engagement Coordinator at McLaughlin & Harvey, alongside representatives from LCC UHI and Comhairle Apprenticeship Manager, Dolina Smith met with a selection of young people interested in careers in construction. During the information session at Stornoway Town Hall the panel discussed apprenticeship, work experience and educational opportunities.

For further information on opportunities in construction contact the Accredited Skills and Training Team at employability@cne-siar.gov.uk