A Cumbrian training provider has helped 15 unemployed people into jobs.
BTP Cumbria, which offers industry-focused construction training, delivered a programme funded by the Department for Education’s Skills Bootcamp initiative.
Supported by Enterprising Cumbria, the programme has successfully trained and placed 15 unemployed individuals into jobs within the region’s thriving construction industry, addressing critical recruitment shortages.
Keith Dymond, BTP Cumbria director, said: “We are thrilled to have partnered with Enterprising Cumbria to deliver this much-needed training.
“The construction industry is the backbone of our economy, and it’s vital that we equip local people with the skills they need to not only secure employment but also to help fill the urgent demand for skilled labour in the sector.”
Through the DfE-funded Skills Bootcamp, participants received hands-on, industry-specific training designed to meet the current and future needs of employers. The program focuses on key areas such as concreting, drainage, modular paving and health and safety, ensuring that graduates were job-ready from day one.
Local companies providing employment include Cubby Construction, Stobbarts, Mike Howe Groundworks and RD Nairn.
Cubby Construction employed four people from the latest Skills Boot Camp and the firm’s Richard Tasker said: “We only intended to make offers to two of them but we were very impressed by the enthusiasm they showed and how they came across which is why we made more offers than we planned to.”
Ryan McLagan, one of the trainees on the course, said: “I’d just like to say thank you to all at BTP, such a great opportunity, I’m absolutely over the moon with how much I’ve learned and the job/career I’ve now got at Cubby. Absolutely life changing. Thank you very much, hopefully some point in the future there will be a chance for me to give something back to BTP.”
Jade Appels, another of the trainees who have been employed by Cubby. She said: “I can’t recommend it highly enough. The programme was not only well-structured and informative, but it also provided hands-on, practical experience that’s essential for anyone looking to enter the construction industry.
“What made this bootcamp stand out was the supportive learning environment. The instructors were knowledgeable and approachable, ensuring that everyone, regardless of prior experience, felt confident in their ability to succeed. For women, especially, this bootcamp is an incredible opportunity to break into an industry that is traditionally male dominated.
“The bootcamp fostered a strong sense of community, encouraging more women to pursue roles in construction by offering real skills, empowering education, and networking opportunities. I would highly encourage more women to take part in these programmes.
“The construction industry is evolving, and it’s crucial that we embrace the opportunity to be a part of this change. This bootcamp is a great step towards building both confidence and capability in a rewarding and dynamic field.”
BTP Training is now launching its bootcamps in Barrow. it will focus on groundworking.
Keith added: “We are thrilled to expand our offerings to Barrow-in-Furness with this vital training programme. Ground working is a critical area of growth in the construction industry, and by investing in skills development now, we’re helping to solve long-term recruitment challenges.
“Thanks to Enterprising Cumbria’s support, we can provide this training free of charge to eligible participants, creating a pathway to employment in a high-demand field.”
