Trade hub secures funding to teach Levenmouth youngsters construction skills for second year

The Community Trade Hub, based at Free Gardeners Hall in Buckhaven, was awarded £24,000 from Levenmouth Area Committee’s anti-poverty budget last week.

The funding will allow for the hub to expand its project to provide evening and weekend opportunities for young people to receive training.

Clients, aged between 16-24, learn a variety of skills at the hub, from joinery to tiling, before going on a six-week placement. Many of those who have taken part in the project have gone onto positive destinations, including further education and apprenticeships.

The project aims to give the young people, some of whom have dropped out of school for various reasons, with no plan for the future, better physical, emotional and mental wellbeing; better connections with the community; and new skills and training that will help them find work in the future.

It is also hoped the clients will learn other skills, such as pricing, planning, negotiating, procurement and leadership skills.

The project was praised by local councillors.

“You see the impact they have on young people and the area,” said Cllr Ryan Smart.

“It’s a good facility and an alternative provision we needed in this area that has been sadly lacking for supporting youngsters,” added Cllr Colin Davidson.

“It’s a worthwhile organisation and we need to get behind it.”

There was also praise for the work the hub has been doing during the pandemic.

While the hub has not been able to offer the same services it usually would, members have helped out in the community, including working on the local food distribution network.

Cllr Ken Caldwell, committee convenor, said: “It’s good to see the hub adapt to the pandemic and still support people despite the school being closed.”

Cllr Smart added: “They should be commended for getting involved in the community because it is something the Community Trade Hub did not have to do. They went above and beyond.”

Despite the pandemic, the hub has still been able to support 36 young people this year. It has, working with Fife College, also helped eight clients improve their qualifications, using online tools, which will allow them to secure modern apprenticeships.