On Friday 28th March, Dunster House had the pleasure of welcoming local MP Katrina Murray, along with employer advisors and senior leaders from the Job Centre, West of Scotland, to discuss the positive impact of the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) on Dunster House’s operations in Scotland. The scheme has played an important role in helping Dunster House build a skilled workforce while supporting local employment in the Cumbernauld and Huntly areas.
During the visit, Katrina Murray MP had the opportunity to meet Dunster House founders Christopher Murphy MBE and Pamela Murphy, along with Mike Hart, Operations Director, at the Dunster House Cumbernauld facility to engage with employees who have secured full-time positions following the successful completion of the six-week SWAP programme.
The Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) is designed for individuals ready to enter employment but who require support in developing industry-specific skills and behaviours. These placements help job seekers build confidence, enhance their CVs, and improve their job prospects, while also assisting employers in filling local vacancies. Delivered by Jobcentre Plus, SWAP is available in both England and Scotland.
Christopher Murphy MBE, Founder of Dunster House, shared his thoughts on the scheme:
“The SWAP programme has been invaluable in enabling us to offer local career opportunities to those seeking employment, whether just starting their careers or looking for a fresh opportunity. The flexibility that the scheme provides has been extremely valuable to us.”
Katrina Murray MP said,
“Dunster House is a prime example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through effective collaboration. The work they continue to do in partnership with the local Job Centre and the Department for Work and Pensions should serve as a model for businesses across the UK. My recent visit provided an invaluable opportunity to meet the dedicated individuals driving this initiative and to hear first hand from those who have successfully secured employment as a result of their efforts.
This is a truly commendable initiative, providing much-needed support to individuals who previously faced barriers to re-entering the workforce. Thanks to this programme, many now have the stability and security of meaningful employment that works for them and their families.”
For more information on the SWAP scheme, visit the Jobcentre Plus website.
To explore career opportunities at Dunster House, visit dunsterhouse.co.uk/careers.
About Dunster House
Dunster House is a UK-based company specialising in the design, manufacture, and supply of high-quality garden buildings and outdoor structures. Their product range includes log cabins, summerhouses, climbing frames, sheds, gazebos, and other timber garden products. Innovative sanitation products have also been designed for NGOs for disaster situations. Established in 1994, the company is known for its commitment to innovation, durability, and sustainability in its manufacturing processes.
Dunster House operates multiple factories and distribution centres across England and Scotland, ensuring control over the quality and design of its products. The company also emphasises job creation and workforce development, often engaging in employment initiatives such as the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) to provide opportunities for job seekers.
For more details, you can visit their official website: dunsterhouse.co.uk.
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