Hundreds of unemployed young people could get work thanks to the first training programme of its kind being launched in Scotland.

The 'Energy To Work' Programme, which will be piloted in Glasgow, will give 20 trainees the chance to learn a range of skills that should lead to jobs in the energy-related sector.

During the programme, the young people will learn to carry out a range of insulation measures including cavity wall and loft insulation. They will also be given energy efficiency advice, a work placement with Everwarm (a ScottishPower approved contractor) or the Wise Group. This will also include the opportunity to take a vocational qualification and the skills and experience needed to get permanent work with insulation installers.

Ian Russell, CEO of Scottish Power, said: "The 'Energy To Work' programme is a great example of how organisations can pool their expertise and resources to help some of the most vulnerable people in our communities get the skills and experience they need to find work.

"This programme brings together a network of insulation installers, training providers and extensive community-based experience to further the job prospects of our young people at the same time as delivering much needed services to those living in fuel poverty."

He added: "ScottishPower is delighted to lead such an innovative project that will build the confidence and skills of our most vulnerable young people and help them on the road to an independent, fulfilled life."

The training consists of a 12-week placement on The Prince's Trust Team programme working on a community-based project plus a two-week work placement with an approved ScottishPower contractor or the Wise Group. This will be followed by a New Deal training place with the Wise Group and the subsequent chance to complete a vocational qualification with Everwarm Services Ltd.

Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen said: "This project shows how modern environmental demands are fuelling new business opportunities as well as giving new skills to young people. This is an excellent example of industry using its initiative to help young people and help the environment."

ScottishPower has a track record of working closely with community partners to help improve the employability and skills of young people within its communities. ScottishPower Learning has to date trained more than 10,000 young people.

Michael Hankinson, Operations Director of The Prince's Trust Scotland, said "This year we will support over 3000 unemployed young people to improve self esteem, motivation and develop the skills they require to move into employment.  This new initiative has the potential to create hundreds of jobs and career opportunities for young people helping address the issues of skill and labour shortages in Scotland."

Work experience will make the trainees more employable, but the aim is that they move into employment within the network of contractors currently carrying out home insulation projects for ScottishPower.

Everwarm Services Ltd acknowledges that it has been very difficult to find experienced people to carry out insulation measures due to the vast number of homes requiring insulation. Bob Graham, Chairman of EWS Ltd, said: " The only way we see forward is to train new younger people and bring them into the industry which is desperately short of skilled installers."

Further information:

Simon McMillan                                 0141 566 4875