From Craftsman to chargehand in 4 months

Published 28 Apr 2010 16:48

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Fraser McRoberts had been out of work for 9 months and was finding it difficult to gain employment, due to the recession. A joiner to trade, Fraser, 23, fancied trying his hand at something different.

He started work through the Future Jobs Fund (FJF) with East Ayrshire Woodlands Project in November 2009 as a Forest Craftsperson - and in a record four months had a salaried post as a Chargehand.

Based initially at Woodroad Park, Cumnock, Fraser very soon demonstrated his ability to motivate others and complete jobs to a high standard. He showed himself a natural leader and worked hard to ensure the park was a place where people could come and enjoy the great outdoors.

In March 2010, he succeeded in getting a job with East Ayrshire Council as a Chargehand at Dean Castle, responsible for his own squad of FJF employees tasked with clearing the path network along the River Ayr Way. He now leads his own team in building boardwalks and benches, so that local people can enjoy the countryside.

While employed through FJF, Fraser, who lives in New Cumnock, has also studied to achieve his First Aid at Work and PA1/PA6 qualifications.

Laura Neill, Improving Opportunities Manager with East Ayrshire Council Skills Development & Employability Service, said: "Fraser performed a wide range of duties with the Woodlands Project. This built on his existing skills and experience and provided the opportunity to progress to sustainable employment. In starting work as a Chargehand, he has progressed from a national minimum waged job to a salaried position earning 50% more. This demonstrates the impact the opportunity created through FJF has had on Fraser's life."

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration, said: "The announcement of the Future Jobs Fund was a response to the soaring levels of youth unemployment and a lack of job opportunities. When this was introduced, the impact locally was evident and FJF offered young people posts to apply for. Fraser and others like him are making great successes out of these exciting opportunities."

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