In partnership with DWP Fife, Kingdom Works and Fife College, CR Smith helped to create a new manufacturing skills academy and work experience programme introducing people to roles in despatch, warehousing and production. The collaboration proved a big success with six securing jobs in the fabrication and machine shop at the end of the programme.

Also joining the home improvements company in the machine shop is Ebony Keatings, a former Beath High School pupil, who was mentored by manufacturing director, Colin Eadie, as part of the Career Ready programme. While a role at CR Smith was not the intention at the start, both are delighted that she is embarking on a career in engineering.

As CR Smith continues to recruit a variety of positions within its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Colin Bain, head of manufacturing at CR Smith, said finding new ways to help people into jobs and support those looking to retrain is vitally important.

Mr Bain added: “Helping people, whether unemployed or just out of school, into work is something we are deeply committed to. If we can introduce them to a career in manufacturing, we also know that we can support our own company development and aspirations, so these programmes are very important.

“These two initiatives have been very successful, not least because those taking part are determined to work. The individuals in the skills academy showed their willingness to learn and showed great initiative, while Ebony is full of determination and has a tremendous work ethic. I’m delighted that they have now joined us and know that they are welcomed and supported by everyone at CR Smith.”