The Government incentive will create six-month work placements in the roofing industry for young people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are at risk of long-term unemployment.

The National Federation of Roofing Contractors has received confirmation from the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions that its application to the Government’s Kickstart Scheme has been successful.

The Government incentive will allow the DWP to work with NFRC and its successful members, to create six-month work placements in the roofing industry for young people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are at risk of long-term unemployment.

NFRC members will provide a mixture of on-site, office and factory based opportunities with companies from across Great Britain. Placements will span all different disciplines within the roofing industry from slating and tiling, flat roofing through to sheeting and cladding.

NFRC Head of Technical and Training, Bob Richardson, said: “We are delighted that the Secretary of State has approved our application. This is welcome news not only for the members who applied but for countless young people who will now be given a chance to work in our brilliant industry.

“At a time of great difficulty for many, I’m proud that our industry is leading the way in helping to get young people back into work. Whether it’s learning about roofing on-site, accountancy in the office, or customer service at a roofing merchant, these individuals will get a real insight into the many opportunities our sector offers

“I would like to thank all the members who put themselves forward for this scheme, and for their commitment to support those taking up Kickstart placements.”

* The following companies were approved by the DWP to take part in the scheme:

Archibald McCorquodale & Son

DVC Roofing & Building

D.W. Russell

M. Henrickson Flat Roofing Services

Forest Park Developments

Group Tegula

Jarvis & Womack

Martin Brooks (Roofing Specialists)

Procast Building Contractors

Rowlands Roofing

Skyline Roofing Centres

SSC Roofing & Cladding

Volsen

WonderBuilds Inc.

More information about the Kickstart Scheme can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/kickstart-scheme