As part of the NASC’s ongoing efforts to address the labour market challenges faced by its members, the NASC launched the Returning Citizens campaign. Returning citizens is the term of reference the NASC are using for ex-offenders as they believe that if someone has been punished with a custodial sentence for a past crime and they want the opportunity to change their life, NASC members are prepared to give them the means to do that through employment. The NASC works with a variety of stakeholders to increase the number of returning citizens - formerly referred to as ex-offenders - that enter the scaffolding industry upon completion of their sentence. The NASC is also working with a wide range of partners in the criminal justice sector including prisons, probation services, the Police and specialist charities dedicated to reducing recidivism and creating employment opportunities. Initiatives are taking place across the UK to achieve this goal, some of which sees returning citizens complete the COTS course while in custody, whilst others will be referred from programmes that require full time employment as a condition of their eligibility and continued liberty. Participating NASC members have made a commitment to offer guaranteed interviews to any candidates referred through the NASC’s stringent vetting process. A number of key stakeholders have already agreed to be a part of this initiative and the interest in this scheme continues to grow. The enthusiasm of NASC members and the positive responses from stakeholders and partners indicate that this initiative has immense potential. The NASC are excited to be developing such a scheme and look forward to welcoming talented and willing individuals into our industry.
23 окт 2024
