North Lanarkshire Council’s innovative Summer Placement Programme provides young people (aged 16 and over) with a seven-week, hands-on experience in a range of sectors, running from late June to mid-August.

Following the success of the programme in 2024, the council is aiming to increase the number of placements in the Built Environment, Digital and Health and Social Care, preparing young people for future careers while addressing local workforce needs.

This initiative offers firms a valuable opportunity to “give something back” to their community by helping young people gain essential workplace skills like teamwork, problem-solving and communication. For companies, it’s also a chance to make a positive impact on the local workforce by supporting young people in developing a strong foundation in the industry.

Councillor Michael McBride, convener of Education and Families, explained: “This programme provides young people with invaluable experience and insight into these sectors, while also addressing the pressing workforce needs.

“We are committed to expanding these opportunities and I would urge local businesses to join us in creating new pathways to employment.

“This programme is a great chance for local businesses to show how much their community really means to them. We are asking firms in the construction and building industry, digital sector and Health and Social Care environment to participate and help equip our young people with the skills needed to build a stronger future for young people in our area.”

This summer, make a difference by investing in the workforce of tomorrow. For companies interested, email: nlacademies@northlan.gov.uk. 

The council is hosting an employer engagement event on Friday 24 January from 1pm-3pm at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility. You will hear more about the Summer Placement Programme, including from employers and young people. Click here to register your attendance at the employer engagement event.