Warmworks
Warmworks was formed to deliver the Scottish Government’s flagship national fuel poverty scheme, Warmer Homes Scotland, providing insulation, efficient heating and renewable technologies in the homes of households who are struggling with the cost of high energy bills.
Warmworks is committed to delivering a high-quality service to all customers, irrespective of location, and to genuine local delivery through sustainable supply chains. With local staff based around the country, from regional customer service officers to surveyors, Warmworks ensures that communities have a local source of support to help them through the process.
Through its development of a supply chain of local SMEs at the outset, Warmworks has ensured that the Warmer Homes Scotland scheme is delivered locally, supporting regional economic growth through 300 new local jobs. Alex Murray Construction Ltd is a one such locally engaged subcontractor, providing a first-class service to communities across the Western Isles. Operations Manager Steven Murray:
“Working with Warmworks has allowed us to further the training and development of our workforce. This year, we renewed our commitment to developing the young workforce by providing three work placement opportunities, in addition to the six apprentices we already have in our team.”
“To see young people coming through the ranks and learning new skills that will set them up for life has been a real joy for us as a business. We look forward to continuing our work in this area and to making a difference to vulnerable people’s lives throughout the Western Isles for many years to come.”
Steven Murray, Alex Murray Construction Ltd Operations Manager
Local communities are central to Warmworks’ approach to delivery. One aspect of their communities work is the Employment Skills Plan. It sets out ambitions for jobs and apprenticeships created, training and re-skilling opportunities made possible and work placements generated for graduates and school-age children to learn more about trades.
In 2018/19, Warmworks reached a milestone of having employed more than 100 apprentices since Warmer Homes Scotland was launched in 2015 – a major highlight and one that ensures that the scheme’s legacy will have a lasting impact. These apprenticeships cover gas and electrical engineers as well as other construction-focused trades.
As part of a commitment to continual staff development, Warmworks looks to upskill employees and contractors. Opportunities throughout the whole supply chain range from Health & Safety, to supervisory, leadership & management, renewables, customer service, mental health, SVQs, apprenticeships and trades.
Working with Developing the Young Workforce and Young Scot, Warmworks committed to additional employment, work placement and training targets for Year of Young People Scotland 2018, leading to the creation of 70 fantastic new opportunities.
As a values-driven company, Warmworks and its supply chain also mentors vulnerable young people through MCR Pathways in Glasgow and Edinburgh, with employees committing their own time to support these young people on their career and life journey.