There have been reports of up to 60% labour not being available by some FIS members.  With this in mind, FIS has two projects specifically designed to attract people into the sector. In addition, the Governments Plan for Jobs has four initiatives that rely on employers’ willingness to provide work placements and/or for T-Level students industrial placements.

Critical to the success of these two projects is the commitment from employers to give individuals a chance by offering work placements.

FIS Build Back Programme
This programme accepts individuals from a range of backgrounds including HM Forces Career Progression candidates and clients put forward by the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP). To help prepare the candidates for work, each learner receives training in drylining finxing and boarding and are supplied with personal protective equipment, a set of tools and a CSCS Provisional Card.  The candidates just need an opportunity to show employers what they can do during a work placement.  This may ultimately lead to a full-time work opportunity and will also add new talent to the workforce.

There are currently 43 HM Force Career Progression candidates that have received Fixer Boarder training available for work placement now.  Please contact Catherine Bullough by email: catherinebullough@thefis.org for details.

FIS Kickstart Programme
This is part of the Government’s Plan for Jobs; we help employers fill their new vacancies. By working with the DWP, FIS can help to source suitable candidates for a six-month job placement within the business.  Once successful candidates are placed with the company, the employer is entitled to claim a support grant of £1500 plus the national minimum wage salary payments based on 25 hours per week.

For more details on these projects and to register your interest in offering work placements please contact Catherine Bullough, Skills and Training Coordinator on 07900 083325 or email catherinebullough@thefis.org