Scaffolders Made Inside Britain

Young prisoners are now able to complete CISRS scaffolding training whilst awaiting release thanks to a new multi-partner skills and employment initiative.

The scheme will see inmates at HMP and YOI Thorn Cross, near Warrington, given the opportunity to gain a CISRS COTS card and real-life work experience, providing them with a greater chance of securing immediate employment within the scaffolding industry upon their release.

The NASC, CISRS, CISRS accredited training provider Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training Ltd, CITB and Procure Plus Ltd joined forces to work on this project, which took a major step forward this week following a successful CISRS audit within Thorn Cross.

Fulcrum Managing Director Dave Abraham said: “We’re delighted to have successfully complete the audit to establish an accredited CISRS COTS accredited centre within HMP/YOI Thorn Cross, the first CISRS centre to be located in a prison establishment.

“We will be delivering a five-day, hands-on programme where the learners will receive an introduction to scaffolding. constructing low-level structures such as towers, independents and birdcages. Within the five days the learners will complete a COTS course and a Level 1 health and safety course.

“We’re hoping to roll this programme out across other prisons in the region in the coming weeks.”

David Mosley, CISRS Scheme Managing Director and NASC Training Director, added: “This scheme will give people the relevant training to enter employment in the scaffolding industry. We’ve asked NASC Contractor members across the UK to do their part by committing to interview successful candidates for potential job opportunities and the response has been excellent.

“The NASC is involved in a number of initiatives under the wider Made Inside Britain umbrella that will better connect returning citizens with NASC Contractor members, a partnership that will be of huge benefit to both parties.”