B-DACS first with young worker award

UK: Air conditioning contractor B-DACS has become one of the first companies in Scotland to achieve a new accreditation recognising its work with young people.

The Glasgow-based air conditioning firm has gained Investors in Young People (IIYP) accreditation, a new initiative from Investors in People Scotland which has been supported by £1m funding from the Scottish Government.

Launched in July 2014, IIYP is offered to all businesses across Scotland and exists to recognise and support organisations across Scotland in the employment of young people.

B-DACS currently offers young people a four-week work placement providing them with an introduction to the air conditioning industry as well as technical training and support. The placement is then followed by a competency based interview, and if successful the application will receive a permanent job on completion. 

Diane Drummond, director at B-DACS, said: “We employ young people because we can train and support them in our values and way of working. It’s well worth providing this support because on completion of this process, they are much more committed and they generally want to stay with us in the future. This helps our business continuity and growth. It also helps young employees because they have the prospect of a permanent contract, a salary and clear career progression.”

 Congratulating B-DACS on their achievement, Investors in People Scotland, chief executive Peter Russian commented:“The benefits of recruiting and developing young people are countless. These include the creation of a talent pool for the future, new and increased skills in areas such as IT and social media, fresh eyes and mind-sets into business operations along with enthusiasm and unique talents.”

Diane added; “IIYP’s Framework offers a foundation to build your recruitment and retention strategy on. The Framework is easy to follow and the process is not overly onerous. IIYP supports businesses to take on young people in a more structured way and sets out clear expectations for the manager, the young people and the organisation as a whole.

“It is a culture change but it’s a good culture change. A recent recruit told us he was in a far better place in his life by working with us. And by taking on young people, B-DACS is also in a better place, both now and in the future.”

Further reading:

Scottish MP opens new B-DACS office – July 8, 2014
UK: Continuing expansion of Glasgow-based air conditioning contractor B-DACS has prompted a move to new larger premises on the Panorama Business Village. Read more…