Apprenticeships flourish with the inclusion of community benefit contract requirements
A LEADING Scottish housing provider has awarded a multi-trade repairs contract to Lanarkshire based company, Rodgers & Johnston Ltd (R&J), solidifying its commitment to investing in the local community.
Worth £4.5 million over four years, Bield’s new responsive void property works and out of hours emergency repairs contracts across the West and Central areas of Scotland have served as a catalyst for supporting local youth and fostering it’s growth within the industry with a community benefit clause built into the contract requirements.
The clause requires the maintenance contractor to deliver their service while providing a range of economic, social and environmental conditions to help benefit the local community.
One such condition was the employment of new apprentices from the geographic area in which the company is operating in.
These individuals will gain invaluable hands-on experience whilst contributing to the upkeep of the properties, setting them on a trajectory towards rewarding careers in housing repairs and maintenance.
Ross Leonard is one of this year’s apprentices, recently graduating from Larkhall Academy at the age of 18.
Ross said: “I am looking forward to developing my career with R&J and contributing to the community where I grew up. My plumbing apprenticeship will allow me to develop practical skills while giving back to the local area.
“One of the best parts of the job is getting to meet new people every day and hearing their incredible stories. No two days are ever the same, and that variety is just one of the many reasons I love working at Bield’s developments.”
As part of the renewed contract, Ross will be primarily responsible for assisting in plumbing repairs and installations, gaining invaluable experience in the field and putting his skills to the test.
Greg Johnston, the Director of Lanarkshire firm R&J, expressed enthusiasm about the continued partnership: “We are excited to have been awarded this multi-trade contract and to continue our successful collaboration.
“Our approach to customer service aligns closely with Bield’s values, and this is an opportunity for us to deliver our new contractual community benefits.”
This long-standing partnership, now spanning over 15 years, has proven to be a win-win for all involved, fostering a collaborative approach to community development and empowering the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Drew Moore, Director of Assets at Bield, emphasised the far-reaching impact of the contract renewal: “We look forward to extending this long-term partnership, which benefits our communities immensely.”
“We understand the importance of day-to-day repairs for our tenants, and we are excited about the opportunities this contract will provide not only to them but also to the young people seeking to thrive and develop their careers.”
Bield is a leading provider of housing and care services for older people across Scotland. Founded in 1971 with one housing development, Bield now supports more than 5,000 customers across more than 170 developments.
For more about Bield visit https://www.bield.co.uk/ or follow them on Facebook @bieldhousingandcare and Twitter @BieldScotland
