Bathroom and kitchen surface manufacturer Rearo has joined forces with employment charity First Steps Future Training, to create work opportunities for underprivileged, young people.

The partnership aims to equip young people, aged 12 to 25, with the skills, experience and confidence needed for future employment.

Formed in 2013, First Steps Future Training provides young people with construction training and qualifications to help them secure work in the sector.

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Its training programme covers a range of trades, including bricklaying, joinery, painting, decorating, and scaffolding.

Rearo, which has premises in Glasgow, Washington, Tyne and Wear, and Northampton, manufactures high-pressure laminate wall panels and commercial washrooms.

Operations excellence manager Jamie Campbell said: “The programme that First Steps has set up is remarkable. It provides a valuable training ground for these young individuals who might not have had the best start in life.

“From the ages of 12 to 18, they engage in practical skills development, preparing them for the challenges of the working world.”

As part of the collaboration, Rearo has also contributed to the charity’s headquarters in Bridgeton, providing toilet cubicles and wall panels.

Campbell said: “When First Steps reached out to us, we saw an opportunity not just to offer employment but also to contribute to the community.

“We decided to provide toilet cubicles and wall panels to support the charity in creating a conducive learning environment.”

The collaboration doesn’t stop at potential job placements; Rearo is also offering a six-week trial period for graduates of First Steps’ training programme, essentially providing a pre-apprenticeship experience.

This allows both the company and the individual to assess compatibility before committing to a formal apprenticeship.

Potential apprentices will help to install the Rearo toilet cubicles and Selkie wall panels at the charity HQ, prior to employment according to Campbell.

He said: “It’s like a win-win situation. The trial period helps us identify if the individual is a good fit for our company, and it gives the young person a chance to experience the workplace before committing to a long-term apprenticeship.”

In addition to its support for the training programme and the provision of materials, Rearo is reaching out to high schools to encourage pupils to consider apprenticeships.

Campbell also stated an intention to diversify its workforce by potentially hiring older individuals.

He said: “While we are proud of our engagement with young people, we also want to balance our workforce.

“We are considering bringing in older individuals to ensure a diverse and well-rounded team.”

George Bruce, operations manager of First Steps Future Training, commented on the partnership: “To say that we’re grateful is an understatement.

“Rearo has not only provided potential employment opportunities for our graduates but has also enhanced our facilities with their generous donation.

“This collaboration goes beyond a transaction; it’s about investing in the future of these young individuals.”