The Story

Prisoners at Perth have constructed an entire house from the ground up as part of a pioneering project aimed at helping them to rebuild their lives. The six men, who had little or no experience in the trade 12 weeks ago, did everything, from laying the first bricks for the foundations to placing the last roof tile on top. They learned a host of new building skills along the way – as well as gaining confidence and learning how to work as a team.

Organisers hope the experience will help them to land jobs, or go onto further training when they leave Perth Prison, thus reducing the risk of them re-offending. Bosses at Robertson Construction, who worked with them on the scheme, believe it might also help them to tackle a nationwide shortage of skilled labour in the industry.

Perth Prison scheme can help boost construction workforce. The successful candidates were whittled down from around 80 who expressed an interest in the scheme. Applicants had to go through a full interview process before they were selected. Robertson Construction provided the materials for the project and a member of staff to teach practical lessons.

Dundee & Angus College also offered support with training. David Barber, from Robertson Construction, helped devise the Perth Prison project. He said he was “blown away” by the outcome and looking forward to building on its success. The company is working on a number of projects across Tayside at the moment, including the new Perth and Monifeith high schools and the East End Community Campus in Dundee.

Each will need around 150-200 people working on them when construction is in full swing.

It’s estimated that 80% of the materials can be recycled and re-used by the next batch of trainees. The success of the initial venture means there’s a long list of people wanting to take part.

The Perth scheme was a first for the Scottish Prison Service. It’s hoped other jails will now follow suit. They’re the ones who made it happen’ Oscar Markham, Construction Academy Officer at HMP Perth, said the scheme had given the men purpose. “The way they’ve bonded as a team has been just as important as the practical skills,” he said. “You could see them wanting to better each other as time went on. If one of them was struggling, they’d go to the other for help. And now I hear them speaking about what they’re going to do next – college courses, or adult apprenticeships, or whatever.” Oscar added: “None of us knew if this was going to work, but they’re the ones who made it happen.

“We gave them the idea, and the tools, but if they hadn’t put in the work none of this would have been here. I’m really proud of them.”

The ceremony was attended by Teresa Medhurst, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service, and dignitaries including First minister John Swinney.