Fauldhouse Forestry Employability Project
The CDT are delighted to be the lead Partner in a new employment project in Fauldhouse. The level of youth unemployment has steadily increased in West Lothian over the last few years. To overcome the challenge a partnership group comprising of members from Fauldhouse CDT, West Lothian Council (Community Regeneration) and The Forestry Commission have developed an initiative through funding from the Future Jobs Fund (UK-wide government scheme) and West Lothian LEADER funding.
Over 18 months, this project will provide 6-month paid employment opportunities for 12 unemployed young people aged 18-24. The placement includes working within the woodlands and green spaces in Fauldhouse, receiving on the job training plus employability support to assist in progressing them towards employment after the placement ends. The first group of trainees started on 1st March 2010, with start dates for new trainees planned for September 2010 and March 2011 . Initially, much of the work will take place in Fauldhouse Forest, as the young people receive training in woodland skills. Later in the spring/summer, we have planned a few other projects to benefit the appearance of the village including planting in the War Memorial Garden and perhaps sprucing up areas in and around the rail station.