Yorkshire's unemployed tradesman offered green skills workshops

Unemployed plumbers, heating engineers and electricians in Yorkshire are being given the opportunity to learn a new skills through a new initiative.

The National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies and Jobcentre Plus are delivering the ‘Supporting the Unemployed into Employment Programme.’

It aims to equip unemployed people with skills in renewable and energy saving technologies such as solar photovoltaics, solar thermal hot water, heat pump or rainwater and greywater reuse systems.

Cathryn Hickey, executive director for the National Skills Academy said: “We are really pleased to be working in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, to deliver this programme, helping the regions unemployed get back into work by providing services that are increasingly in demand as ‘going green’ becomes a reality for more people.

“Installers who complete the upskilling courses will be able to acquire knowledge in the latest technologies, meeting legislative requirements under the RHI, Green Deal and FiTs.

“As part of the programme, we will be giving successful candidates a listing on our Trained Installer Register; a database of National Skills Academy qualified trades’ people, searchable by postcode; helping installers get found by potential customers in their area.”

Those interested should contact their local Jobcentre Plus via this link.