Russell Roof Tiles has launched a new £10,000 bursary scheme in a bid to encourage individuals to get into manufacturing, construction and engineering trades.
Through the new scheme, young people from the company’s two hometowns of Burton on Trent and Lockerbie will have the opportunity to win one of ten bursaries worth £1,000 each for any training directly related to the three areas of industry.
The John Gibson Fund / Bursary – named after the founder of the roof tile manufacturer – can be used for education or training as well as transport and resources to assist students in their studies, such as clothing, books and other equipment.
The bursary has been created by Andrew Hayward, managing director for Russell Roof Tiles, whom the company says is keen to support and encourage youngsters looking for a career.
Mr Hayward commented: “There is a huge skills gap in the manufacturing, construction and engineering trades so it is vital that businesses like ours invest in the long term.
“According to recent figures, there are currently 630,000 unemployed people aged 16-24, but despite such high youth unemployment we, just like other manufacturers, struggle to attract young people who want to work hard, be trained well and be rewarded for their efforts.
“This bursary will be available to any young person in these areas who needs additional help with their training or studies.”
As part of the launch, Russell Roof Tiles is also looking for partners to come forward to assist with education and professional training for those awarded the bursary.
Mr Hayward added: “We are in a huge growth sector and we have seen turnover double in the last five years. There are still many dynamic British manufacturers thriving that rely on youngsters joining the industry and I hope this new bursary will encourage talented young people in their career.”
