Local building firms are being encouraged to take on apprentices to train as key construction workers at an employer forum this week. 
 
Organised by Jobcentre Plus in partnership with Ayr College, the event will take place from 12.30 to 2.00pm on Wednesday 16 May at Ayr College East annex, Caponacre Industrial Estate, Cumnock. 
 
Representatives from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), Enterprise Ayrshire and Careers Scotland will be on hand to provide information to both employers and potential employees.
 
Jim McGonigle, Jobcentre Plus district manager, said: “This event helps to address the skills shortage in the industry. Jobcentre Plus can help employers find new staff and this particular event is targeted at the construction industry to try to encourage employers to take on apprentices and provide them with training.”
 
Several employers were successful in recruiting new apprentices at the first event of this kind at Ayr College last year.
 
Gus McCormick from Brookfield’s said: “Last year’s event offered everything you could wish to know about taking on apprentices. I spoke with the Construction Industry Training Board, Ayr College and Jobcentre Plus representatives and the information received was invaluable. I have taken on two apprentices and I am delighted with their progress.”
 
Employers wishing to find out more about the event should contact Kaye Gall on 01290 306805.
 
Employers from any industry can find out more about support services available to them by contacting their local Jobcentre Plus office or by contacting Employer Direct on 0845 601 2001.
 
Notes to editors

Jobcentre Plus can offer a range of services and incentives to help employers take on apprentices and the forum will provide the opportunity to find out more. 
 
For information about the press release contact: Laura Stevens, district marketing manager for Jobcentre Plus in Ayrshire, Dumfries, Galloway & Inverclyde
Telephone: 01292 666037

For all other media enquiries contact: Sam O’Kane, Department for Work and Pensions press office Scotland
Telephone: 0131 222 5227
Email: regional-press-office-scotland@dwp.gsi.gov.uk