Thousands more North Sea workers will be able to access tailored support to help them transition into jobs in the sustainable energy sector – thanks to an £18 million boost in funding.
The Scottish Government will invest a total of £9 million over the next three years to the Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund, matched by £9 million from the UK Government, to help oil and gas workers access careers advice and funding for training to enable them to move into roles in sustainable energy industries.
Launched as a pilot programme in June, in response to demand from oil and gas workers, the scheme has received a total of £1.39 million funding to date, with at least 300 workers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire set to be supported in this financial year.
The additional government funding will allow thousands of additional workers to be supported by 2029. Both Governments will now work with trade unions and industry to develop and promote the scheme and explore opportunities for additional private investment.
More than £120 million has already been invested by the Scottish Government in the North East through the Just Transition Fund and the Energy Transition Fund to support the region’s transition to net zero. This funding has helped create green jobs, support innovation, and secured the highly skilled workforce of the future.
Energy Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Scotland’s innovation, expertise and vast renewable energy resources will not only benefit the planet – but deliver new economic opportunities and new jobs for households and communities across the country.
“This continued and expanded funding to the Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund will support more offshore workers to take on different roles across the sustainable energy sector over the next three years – helping to deliver a fair and managed transition to the sector.
“We will continue to explore how best to support Scotland’s energy skills transition, working closely with the UK Government on options like guaranteed interview schemes, redeployment pools and skills passporting.”
UK Government Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Communities across Scotland have long been calling out for a new generation of good industrial jobs. The clean energy jobs boom can answer that call – and today we publish a landmark national plan to make it happen and places Scotland at the very heart of the clean energy revolution this government is delivering.
“Our plans will help create an economy in which there is no need to leave your hometown just to find a decent job. Thanks to this government’s commitment to clean energy a generation of young people in Scotland can have well-paid secure jobs, from plumbers to electricians and welders.
“This is a pro-worker, pro-jobs, pro-union, agenda that will deliver the national renewal our country needs.”
All future Scottish Government funding remains dependent on the upcoming 2026/27 Scottish Budget, Scottish Spending Review and future annual Scottish Budget.
The Oil and Gas Transition Training Fund is aimed at individuals who are currently working (or have worked in the last two years) in the oil and gas industry.
Further information regarding the pilot can be found here: Home
Tickets are now available for Starlight Walk at Holyrood Park, Edinburgh on Saturday 1 November, in aid of Sands, the UK’s leading pregnancy and baby loss charity.
Starlight Walk follows a 6km route through the beautiful Holyrood Park and is an opportunity for anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss, however recently or longer ago, to remember their much-loved babies by joining this lantern-lit walk alongside other bereaved parents and families.
Parents taking part in the Starlight Walk have spoken about why they are doing this and what it means to them.
Bereaved mum, Michelle said:“My angel, Ava Lilly, gained her wings on 1 October 2011. A day that should have been a celebration of her life had overnight turned into my world falling apart. I had a perfect pregnancy, other than her being small, there were no issues, and when she was placed in my arms, she was the perfect little baby.
“Every anniversary I always wonder what she would be like and hate that this was taken from me. I take part in the Sands Starlight Walk for all our babies, because I know that every angel was too perfect for this world, and to be among others that have been through the same gives me comfort and peace knowing I’m not alone in this journey.”
Registration on the day opens from 3pm in the South Hall Complex, University of Edinburgh, EH16 5AR.
The 6km walk begins at 4pm and will take you from South Hall, into Holyrood Park and around Arthur’s Seat, returning to South Hall where you’ll receive your Starlight Walk medal and refreshments.
Once at 150 metres elevation, the walkers will be able to take in the incredible views of Edinburgh City Centre, looking out towards Duddington Loch, before heading back under magical starlight with their lanterns and torches shining brightly.
Tickets are £17.00 for adults, £12.00 for children (under 16) and free for children under 3 and are now available to purchase online.
Everyone that registers will receive a paper lantern and LED candle to carry on the walk, a walking memory card to wear with pride, a Starlight Walkmedal once they have crossed the finish line, and a well-earned tea or coffee and cake in reception with an opportunity to add to our wall of remembrance.
Sands’ Events Fundraising Manager, Liz Williams said:“For those that are unable to attend the event in Edinburgh on 1 November, there is also a Virtual Starlight Walk taking place which can be completed anywhere in the UK on 7 December, on your own or with a loved one.
“Sign up for free and stroll through the countryside, march through the town or simply let your feet lead the way as you walk either 5 or 10km for Sands. Like starlight itself, the love for our babies is endless, and together we will walk through the darkness and find the light.”
Every day 13 babies die before, during or shortly after birth. Sands works to understand where and why babies die and why some women and babies are more at risk than others.
Sands is determined to save every life it can and ensure the right care and support is there for every bereaved family, whenever and wherever they need it.
Promoting sustainable and inclusive growth in partner countries
First Minister John Swinney reaffirmed his government’s commitment to gender equality around the world, announcing the first grants to be awarded from the £3 million Women and Girls Fund.
The grants will support women and girl-led organisations in Zambia and Malawi with a wide range of projects, including enhancing women’s representation in politics and decision-making, furthering rights for disabled women and girls and creating gender-inclusive public services.
In Zambia, the First Minister met organisations to discuss the challenges in advancing women’s rights, and heard about Police Scotland’s partnership with the Zambian Police Service, supported by the Scottish Government, to tackle gender-based violence. He also visited a One Stop Centre, which received valuable resources through this programme to support the delivery of essential services to victims.
In Malawi, the First Minister announced a package of funding to support inclusive growth for women-led businesses, ahead of attending an investment roundtable in Blantyre.
The First Minister said: “Gender inequality remains one of the greatest human rights challenges globally, and the Scottish Government’s funding is empowering women and girls, locally, to define and meet their own priorities.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our key priorities in Scotland, and it is important that we continue to share learning with other countries on this common goal.
“When it comes to building a better future for women and girls, supporting inclusive education and creating opportunities in business will also be key.
“That’s why we are investing over £350,000 this year to the Malawi Investment Programme – helping small and medium enterprises to expand, with a particular focus on women-led businesses.
“The funding will also help empower women, especially in rural areas, through skills development to shape a better future for their families and the community.
“I look forward to continuing to engage with governments in Malawi and Zambia as we continue to work towards our shared goal of advancing gender equality.”
Violet Pikiti Sitwala, Executive Director at Archie Hinchcliffe Disability Intervention said: “As Archie Hinchcliffe Disability Intervention, we have been greatly honored to be part of the whole process of the Women and Girls Fund – from designing to being fund recipients – and now being visited by the First Minister of Scotland.
“The process has been deeply empowering, providing us a valuable opportunity to drive community transformation through advocacy; especially in advancing the rights and well-being of girls and women with disabilities. We are humbled and deeply thankful.”
The Scottish Government’s Women and Girls Fund will deliver grants to women and girl-led organisations across Malawi, Rwanda, and Zambia, aiming to contribute to the delivery of Sustainable Development Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Clean energy will bring 400,000 extra jobs by 2030, with high demand for roles including plumbers, electricians and welders
Government publishes first ever national plan to recruit workers needed for clean energy mission, with over 400,000 extra jobs by 2030
31 priority occupations such as plumbers, electricians and welders are particularly in demand
5 new clean energy Technical Excellence Colleges to train next generation of workers, as part of government’s drive for two-thirds of young people to be in higher-level learning
Energy Secretary to set out measures ensuring companies receiving public grants and contracts need to deliver good jobs across the clean energy sector
A generation of young people across Britain will benefit from the good jobs and high wages that the booming clean energy economy can bring, under new plans announced by the government today as part of the clean energy superpower mission
Backed by record government and private sector investment in clean energy such as renewables and nuclear, the clean energy economy is sparking a boom in demand for good industrial jobs in all regions and nations of the UK – with 31 priority occupations such as plumbers, electricians, and welders particularly in demand.
For the first time, government will today (Sunday 19 October) publish a comprehensive national plan to train up the next generation of clean energy workers, with employment expected to double to 860,000 by 2030, ensuring jobs are high quality and well paid.
Setting clear workforce estimates for the first time will galvanise industry, the public sector, and education providers to work together to deliver one cohesive strategy to invest in training for specific in demand occupations.
The Energy Secretary will also set out how this government sees trade unions as an essential part of the modern workplace and economy. Across the broader energy sector, trade union coverage has declined from over 70% in the mid 90’s to around 30% today. Recognising trade unions is vital to securing high pay and good conditions for workers.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Communities have long been calling out for a new generation of good industrial jobs. The clean energy jobs boom can answer that call – and today we publish a landmark national plan to make it happen.
“Our plans will help create an economy in which there is no need to leave your hometown just to find a decent job. Thanks to this government’s commitment to clean energy, a generation of young people in our industrial heartlands can have well-paid secure jobs, from plumbers to electricians and welders.
“This is a pro-worker, pro-jobs, pro-union, agenda that will deliver the national renewal our country needs.”
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden, said: “We’re giving workers the skills needed for switch to clean energy, which is good for them, good for industry – and will drive growth across the nation.
“Our new jobs plan will unlock real opportunities and ensure everyone has access to the training and support to secure the well-paid jobs that will power our country’s future, as part of our Plan for Change.”
The government’s clean energy mission is already delivering for the UK, with the certainty and stability of the government’s mission having galvanised over £50 billion of private investment since last July.
The government has also given Sizewell C the green light, which will support 10,000 jobs at peak construction, announced Rolls Royce as the preferred bidder for the small modular reactor programme to support up to 3,000 jobs, and kickstarted the Acorn and the Viking projects in Scotland and the North East that is estimated to support a combined 35,000 jobs, including 1,000 apprenticeships. This builds on the 4,000 jobs already set to be created in CCUS projects in the North West and Teesside.
For young people, these jobs can offer higher levels of pay- with entry level roles in the majority of occupations in clean energy paying 23% more than the same occupations in other sectors.
Jobs in wind, nuclear, and electricity networks all advertise average salaries of over £50,000, compared to the UK average of £37,000, and are spread across coastal and post-industrial communities.
New initiatives include:
Training up the next generation of clean energy workers – 5 new Technical Excellence Colleges will help train young people into essential roles. Skills pilots in Cheshire, Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire will be backed by a total of £2.5 million – which could go towards new training centres, courses or career advisers
Harnessing the valuable expertise and transferrable skills of veterans – Working with Mission Renewable, the government is launching a new programme to match veterans up with careers in solar panel installation, wind turbine factories, and nuclear power stations
Tailored schemes for ex-offenders, school leavers, and the unemployed – Last year alone, 13,700 people who were out of work possessed many of the skills required for key roles in the clean energy sector, such as engineering and skilled trades
Upskill existing workers – Oil and gas workers will benefit from up to £20 million in total from the UK and Scottish governments to provide bespoke careers training for thousands of new roles in clean energy. This follows high demand for the Aberdeen skills pilot, which is already supporting workers into new careers. Government is also extending the ‘energy skills passport’, which identifies routes for oil and gas workers to easily transition into roles in offshore wind, to new sectors including nuclear and the electricity grid
The plan also includes landmark proposals to ensure that jobs in the clean energy sector have world class pay, terms and conditions.
Closing loopholes in legislation to extend employment protections enjoyed by offshore oil and gas workers working beyond UK territorial seas, including the national minimum wage, to the clean energy sector
A new Fair Work Charter between offshore wind developers and trade unions to ensure that companies benefiting from public funding provide decent wages and strong workplace rights
Workforce criteria in grants and procurements to test and pilot innovative ways to drive fair work and skills in DESNZ grants and contracts, including through the Clean Industry Bonus and Great British Energy
It comes after the Prime Minister announced a package of reforms to elevate and transform the education skills system, with a new target for two-thirds of young people to participate in higher-level learning – academic, technical or apprenticeships – by age 25, up from 50% today.
With at least 1 in 6 ex-military already armed with many of the skills needed for the clean energy sector, the government is joining forces with Mission Renewable to match them up with careers in solar panel installation, wind turbine factories, and nuclear power stations.
The pilot will initially focus on the East of England, which will benefit from the biggest increase in the size of the clean energy workforce with over 60,000 people expected to be employed in the sector by the end of the decade.
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: Wales’s growing clean energy industry is delivering the well-paid, highly-skilled jobs of the future.
“Projects right across the country from Pembrokeshire to Flintshire are creating opportunities for hundreds of our young people and will help drive regional growth as well as accelerating our drive towards lower bills and energy security.!
Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the TUC, said: “After years of previous governments starving British industry of investment, this represents a serious plan to start to rebuild our industrial heartlands and deliver quality jobs in clean energy – as well as supporting even more in supply chains right across the country.
“Crucially, it puts decent work at the heart of our energy system. And it shows that when government makes a plan with unions and workers, the whole country can benefit.
“Whether it’s welders in Wrexham or pipefitters on Teesside, the firm commitment to clean energy jobs being good union jobs is one which will improve working lives the country over.
“We now look forward to government delivering a similarly robust and funded plan for the North Sea transition, which safeguards jobs and livelihoods.”
Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer at the GMB, said: “GMB has long campaigned for a jobs first transition. The government is listening and having a jobs plan to underpin the industrial strategy is exactly what this country needs.
“GMB welcomes this roadmap for clean energy jobs and the cast iron expectation unions and their members will be at the heart of this.
“We need fair work agreements and taxpayers’ cash has to be spend where good jobs are going to be created. Today’s plan not only sets out that expectation but crucially, how good jobs can be measured.”
Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of the RMT, said: “RMT welcomes the government’s commitment to closing loopholes in maritime and offshore employment law, which should in turn create domestic opportunities in coastal communities that support the entirety of the offshore wind supply chain.
“This plan has the potential to create hundreds of thousands of good jobs across the UK, offering real opportunities for those wishing to transition from oil and gas and for a new generation of workers in their own communities.”
Christina McAnea, General Secretary of UNISON said: “Clean, homegrown energy is essential in tackling climate change and delivering economic growth. This plan can help create a UK workforce with highly skilled, fairly paid and secure jobs.
“Extra investment for retraining will mean experienced staff already employed in the sector are able to take on new roles. Additional funding for apprenticeships and opportunities for young people are crucial too if the UK is to have a bright and clean energy future.”
Alasdair McDiarmid, Assistant General Secretary of Community, said: “After long years of managed decline and neglect under previous governments, we now have an ambitious government which is serious about rebuilding Britain’s industrial base. Crucially, the government is also investing in the skills needed to power the future of British manufacturing – something Community has long called for.
“The push for new clean energy jobs will also support our members in both the light industries and steel sector, with steel being an essential component for green energy infrastructure and construction.
“We look forward to opportunities to collaborate with the government as they roll out this initiative across the UK, delivering for working people in the communities they live in.”
Sue Ferns OBE, Senior Deputy General Secretary at Prospect, said: “The infrastructure investment required to achieve the government’s clean energy mission must be backed by a major boost to jobs and skills.
“If this mission is to be a success, and support the wider industrial strategy and growth agendas, then we urgently need a step-change in the level of workforce development. In this context is it welcome that this Jobs Plan now exists and the new initiatives are a welcome step in the right direction.”
Frances O’Grady, Former General Secretary of the TUC, said: “Energy workers and their families are at the heart of this plan – showing the clean energy transition provides not just energy security but job security.
“Alongside this, it’s a promise that every pound of taxpayers’ money will be used to help create the decent apprenticeships, jobs, and livelihoods that Britain needs.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Well paid, secure work must be at the heart of any green transition. Unite members will welcome the commitment to 400,000 green jobs with strong collective bargaining rights.
“The actions set out in this plan are initial steps in what must be an ambitious strategy for tangible jobs, backed by an equally ambitious programme of public investment.
Chris O’Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica, said: “We have committed to creating a new apprenticeship for every day of this decade. These new secure, skilled, well-paid jobs are key to unlocking the economic growth the UK so desperately needs.
“Clean energy isn’t simply about new technology – it’s about renewing purpose and harnessing the skills and infrastructure that have served us for decades to power the next chapter.
“I’m proud Centrica has the largest unionised workforce in UK energy and services, and we are delighted to welcome the government’s Clean Jobs Plan as a vital step in recognising the skills, protections and careers that must underpin the energy transition.”
Keith Anderson, CEO of ScottishPower, said: “Thanks to the clear direction set out by the government’s Clean Power 2030 Mission, we’re investing at record levels in the clean electricity infrastructure the UK needs for energy security and economic growth.
“Our £24 billion investment plan is creating thousands of job opportunities. We’re recruiting for good, well-paid skilled jobs at record levels. We’re welcoming 300 new recruits in the last 3 months of 2025 alone and aim to bring on another 2,000 jobs up to 2027.
“Many of these jobs are in the communities that we serve in Scotland, England and Wales. This is on top of the benefits for local supply chain businesses across the country from our commitment to domestic procurement that currently supports 70,000 jobs in the UK supply chain.”
EDF power solutions UK CEO Matthieu Hue said: “We welcome the plan which brings clarity on the scale of the opportunity for people across the UK to work in high quality jobs which will contribute to our electric future.
“EDF power solutions has 2 GW of wind, solar and battery in operation and our goal is to have 5 times that amount by 2035, so we will need many more skilled people to help us reach our ambition.
“Our partnership with 4 trade unions, GMB, Prospect, Unison and Unite shows our commitment to working together with them to grow our business.”
Darren Davidson, Vice President of Siemens Energy UK&I, said: “Siemens Energy is a major employer in the UK with 6,500 workers at sites across the UK. We have taken on 140 new apprentices this autumn, and we currently have more than 200 active vacancies.
“The jobs plan announcement is welcome news, building on the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan that was launched at our Hull offshore wind blade factory.”
Chris Norbury, CEO of E.ON UK, said: “Clean power is a defining opportunity to grow the economy, strengthen energy security, and create skilled jobs that support communities nationwide. We welcome the Clean Energy Jobs Plan as a vital step towards building the workforce to realise that potential.
“We’re proud to already be delivering on this ambition by supporting around 800 people annually through our Net Zero Training Academy and wider skills initiatives, and welcoming over 1,300 apprentices across 100 programmes since 2018.
“Through partnerships with trade unions, schools, and local governments, we’re ensuring green jobs are good jobs, rooted in local communities with real progression, purpose, and opportunity. We look forward to working with government and industry to scale up this mission and ensure no region is left behind.”
Michael Lewis, CEO Uniper said: “We’re really pleased to see the launch of the Clean Energy Jobs Plan and the recommendations within it.
“Uniper aims to invest approximately €8 billion into growth and transformation projects by the early 2030s, including solar and onshore wind projects, hydrogen projects, and a new combined-cycle gas turbine power station with carbon capture technology at our Connah’s Quay site – contributing to the retention and creation of jobs, and supporting the regional economy.
“We recognise the need for workers to have the right skills now, and in the future, to support the UK’s and our own ambitions.”
Zac Richardson, Group Chief Engineer at National Grid, said: “Secure, affordable and clean energy is essential to unlocking UK economic growth and productivity – ambitions which are underpinned by electricity networks and the unprecedented levels of planned investment in them.
“We welcome the government’s focus on skills and training – especially for technical roles vital to our energy future – and look forward to working together to build a diverse, homegrown workforce that can deliver the grid of tomorrow.”
Tania Kumar, Director of Net Zero at the CBI, said: “The growth of the clean energy economy is creating opportunities for people and places across the whole of the UK. The launch of the Clean Energy Jobs Plan offers a tangible way to connect communities with both the opportunities emerging across the sector and the businesses at the forefront of delivering them.
“If we want people to feel invested in the transition and ensure they are able to participate in it, we must show them how they fit into the vision. This plan begins to do just that, laying out clear pathways no matter whether you’re in work, seeking employment or returning to the job market.”
Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK, said: “Today’s announcement is a critical step forward in building the workforce required to deliver our future energy system. It rightly recognises the need to tackle the skills challenge collectively by investing in both new talent and our existing workforce.
“With up to 400,000 new jobs on the horizon and a clear focus on high-quality, inclusive opportunities, the Clean Energy Job Plan spotlights a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a cleaner, fairer energy system whose benefits will be felt by people and communities across the country.”
Jane Cooper, Deputy Chief Executive at Renewable UK, said: “The Clean Energy Jobs Plan sets out the scale of the massive opportunity which the UK has to create tens of thousands of new jobs in renewables all over the country.
“It includes practical measures which will enable government and industry to work even closer together to maximise this, such as opening new Technical Excellence Colleges, building on Britain’s current success as a global leader in clean power.
“This long-awaited plan delivers on employers’ calls for a coherent government workforce strategy for clean energy and we look forward to working with Ministers to realise its ambitions.”
Katy Heidenreich Supply Chain and People Director at Offshore Energies UK, said: “Investing in skills development is essential to support the UK’s energy sector and it is encouraging to see governments recognise the huge resource of our oil and gas workforce and how their skills can be developed to provide the expertise needed for the energy mix of the future.
“Oil and gas workers have a continuing role in powering the UK today and for years to come. A successful energy future—one that is increasingly homegrown—depends on supporting the industries and people delivering energy now, alongside growing capability across all technologies.”
Claire Mack OBE, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “The clean power mission is not just about energy security for the country, it’s about good jobs and a workforce fit the future in your locale. The scale and importance of the energy transition requires new approaches to ensure investments in skills, apprenticeships and training serve the needs of the entire economy.
“Scotland is home to world-class energy skills expertise. Working with both governments, the clean energy industry can build on this through the breadth of projects coming forward today and in the years ahead. The Clean Energy Jobs Plan is an important signal to the public and private sectors of how we must quickly strengthen our partnership on jobs and skills.”
Ben Martin, Policy Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The net zero economy is continuing to grow, and the Clean Energy Jobs Plan clearly sets out how the government will recruit essential workers who are critical for the UK’s energy transition. This will support both net zero and economic growth across the UK, providing certainty for people and local communities.
“The plan also recognises the critical role that oil and gas workers in the North Sea will play in driving the renewable energy sector. Aligning skills standards between these 2 sectors and identifying current and future skills needs to support our low carbon future, are essential to delivering a successful UK energy transition.”
Verity Davidge, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, at Make UK said: “Manufacturers are moving at pace to invest in decarbonisation and net zero projects and the transition to clean energy offers huge opportunities for industry. To take full advantage, companies will need to have access to increasingly higher levels of skills and a talent pipeline which will fuel the growth we need to see.
“As such, this plan is a welcome recognition by government and a positive step forward that work needs to start now to get ahead of our competitors and ensure industry is equipped with the skills to do the job. In tandem with this plan we need to accelerate skills reform including ensuring that apprenticeship courses are funded to cover the real cost of training, as outlined in the clean energy sector plan.”
Clare Jackson, CEO of Hydrogen UK, said: “We welcome the Clean Energy Jobs Plan’s recognition that hydrogen will be vital to net zero and to creating high-quality jobs. Much of the oil and gas workforce already has transferable skills, and supporting their transition into hydrogen will be key to a just and rapid shift to a clean energy economy.
“The Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Skills Accelerator is a crucial first step, and over time we must move from designing courses to delivering hands-on training and upskilling to build the workforce of the future.”
Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said: “We welcome the Clean Jobs Plan and its recognition of the vital role CCUS and hydrogen will play in achieving the UK’s growth and decarbonisation goals while keeping industries competitive. Developing the necessary skills base is crucial to unlocking these sectors’ full potential and protecting thousands of existing industrial jobs.
“Establishing a dedicated Hydrogen and CCUS Skills Accelerator, in partnership with industry, marks an important step toward creating high-quality employment and ensuring a just transition for skilled workers from the North Sea. The CCSA looks forward to collaborating with government and partners to build the workforce powering the clean energy future.”
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: “This Jobs Plan shows the huge opportunity clean power offers the UK, and the vital role nuclear will play in delivering it.
“With 100,000 people already working in nuclear in good, skilled jobs across the country, new stations like Sizewell C and a fleet of SMRs will create thousands more — especially for young people — in clean and secure energy.”
Chris Hewett, Chief Executive, Solar Energy UK, said: “Solar energy and battery energy storage already support over 20,000 British jobs, with expectations that the sectors will employ more than twice the number in 10 years’ time.
“But to reach our goals for cheaper, cleaner power, we need to redouble our efforts to attract and train staff for these fast-growing sectors. With our Solar Careers UK programme and critical support from government under the Clean Energy Jobs Plan, we have every expectation that our aspirations will be fulfilled.”
Yselkla Farmer, CEO of BEAMA, said: “We have a long heritage of manufacturing for the electricity industry in the UK. As a supply chain at the heart of the clean energy sector we know the growth potential is substantial as we electrify our energy system.
“The biggest limiting factor for investment today is the availability of a skilled workforce and therefore we welcome the focus on job creation for our supply chain. For network equipment manufacturing alone our average member expects to double employment by 2035.
“This plan sets the foundations we need to help this statistic rise further. Our members offer good jobs, in an industry rooted in local communities right across the UK, what they need is long term certainty and a commitment to support investment which this plan targets.”
Lawrence Slade, CEO of Energy Networks Association, said: “This plan is an important step towards accelerating the real economic benefits of the clean energy transition right around the country.
“Today network operators employ around 26,000 people and facilitate 1,500 apprenticeships, in order to maintain the safe, reliable operation of over 500,000 miles of wires and cables.
“Tomorrow, the clean energy transition will underpin new employment opportunities and economic expansion, with tens of thousands of jobs across the country needed to upgrade the grid, not just temporary positions, but long-term careers, from apprenticeships to advanced engineering roles.
“By working together on the Electricity Networks Sector Growth Plan, we will build on existing work and give industry and government the clarity and confidence needed to invest in the workforce, skills and supply chain capacity that will help drive us towards a clean power system.”
Lieutenant General (Retd) Richard Nugee CB CVO CBE, Chair, Mission Renewable, said: “The Clean Energy Jobs Plan reflects the valuable contributions those who have served have made and can continue to make to the nation.
“By linking veterans and their families with career opportunities in the clean energy sector, Mission Renewable helps companies tap into and retain skilled talent, while at the same time enabling Armed Forces communities to thrive and feel valued. The sector and companies benefit, the veterans benefit and ultimately the nation benefits from skilled people delivering growth and opportunity.”
Paul Cox, Group CEO of Energy & Utility Skills, said: “For the government to achieve its 2030 target, we must put people at the heart of that ambition – only by having the right people with the right skills will we deliver the UK’s energy future.
“Energy and Utility Skills Group has worked closely with the Office for Clean Energy Jobs on its plans, scoping the workforce demands as well as convening the industry to create a UK-wide awareness and attraction campaign.
“We will continue to work with purpose and pace to support the Clean Energy Jobs Plan alongside our partners in the sector.
“Together, we can turn ambition into impact.”
David Hughes, Chief Executive of Association of Colleges, said: “This exciting plan will help people get the skills they need to secure good work locally and it is great to see the investment in colleges to back the government’s ambitions on a net zero future.
“With employers stepping up as well, colleges will be able to offer the training young people need to enter the net zero construction sector, as well as the re-training adults need to move jobs.
“Colleges are ready to be at the heart of this transition, to create real career pathways and help the country lead the global green economy.”
Dobbies Garden Centres has a ‘nice list’ of special Christmas events at its Edinburgh store for every member of the family to enjoy this year. Dobbies’ Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences have an exciting North Pole adventure inspired theme, and four-legged friends are also invited to join the fun with Santa Paws.
At Santa’s Grotto, children will experience a North Pole inspired Grotto, before meeting Santa Claus. The 2025 Santa’s Grotto at the Edinburgh store has adventure as its core with activities along the way as children journey through an ice-inspired world, take part in polar games such as snowball basketball and make some reindeer food. Children will then meet Santa to share their Christmas lists and wishes, before receiving a special gift.
This year’s Santa’s Grotto is set to be the best yet and is running from 23 November to 24 December at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store. The event is priced at £14-£16 per child (date dependant). Photographs with Santa are also available during visits, with reduced rates at the time of booking.
Dobbies’ Quiet Grotto takes place on Friday 5 December at the Edinburgh store and will offer a more relaxed and inclusive experience for children with additional needs. These sessions ensure no queuing on the day, a reduced number of people in the grotto area, twinkling lights are removed and grotto music is turned off.
Prior to visiting, Quiet Grotto customers will also be emailed a photo of the specific grotto they will be visiting to help prepare the children for their experience.
Dobbies was founded in Scotland in 1865, and as the 160th year celebrations wrap up, Dobbies are turning to the future, with every Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto ticket purchased helping to support the The Dumyat Project. planting of up to 3,000 native trees in this beautiful region of Scotland.
This year, families are encouraged to include their four-legged friends in the Christmas fun. Santa Paws, an experience specifically designed for dogs, is back and bigger than ever with increased capacity to meet demand at the Edinburgh store. At Santa Paws, dogs will get the chance to meet Santa and his elves, take part in a sniff-ari activity, capture a special memory with Santa Claus, before receiving a special gift.
Santa Paws is running from 29 November to 24 December, with tickets from £10.50.
Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson is looking forward to welcoming families to this year’s grotto experiences at the Edinburgh store. She said: “We are thrilled to unveil our 2025 North Pole adventure-themed Santa’s Grotto to families this year.
“Children will embark on a magical journey, take part in a variety of fun and interactive activities, and finish their visit by meeting Santa and receiving a special gift.
“Our Quiet Grotto experience is also a great chance for families and children with additional needs to enjoy the fun at Santa’s Grotto, and Santa Paws will be the perfect way to include your dog in the Christmas family memories.”
Customers are encouraged to book in advance for Dobbies’ Christmas events to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for all events and experiences at the Edinburgh store are on sale now with an option to make a donation during your purchase to Dobbies’ National Charity Partner, Alzheimer’s Research UK or to the Dog’s Trust when booking tickets for Santa Paws.
To learn more about the Christmas events and make a booking, visit:
UK Government to launch a consultation on Liberty Protection Safeguards to improve safeguarding for vulnerable people
Protections for people lacking mental capacity to be strengthened through major changes planned by the government to improve safeguarding
Changes expected to address deep-rooted issues within the system by reducing the need for intrusive processes, providing better support for families, carers and health professionals
Comes as Supreme Court reviews what counts as a deprivation of liberty in a case put forward by Northern Ireland
Vulnerable people lacking the mental capacity to make decisions about their care are expected to benefit from major changes to safeguarding and protections, following a consultation announced by the UK government today.
The proposed Liberty Protection Safeguards aim to deliver improved protection and an easier and improved system to allow carers, psychologists, social workers and families to provide care to vulnerable people in circumstances that amount to a deprivation of liberty.
The current Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards system is bureaucratic and complex, leading to poor understanding and application of the law by professionals, unacceptable distress for families and a backlog of 123,790 individuals, putting pressure on the social care system.
The implementation of these new safeguards is expected to streamline processes and reduce the backlog of applications – focusing on those most vulnerable.
A consultation on the Liberty Protection Safeguards will be launched in the first half of next year, seeking the views of those affected such as families, carers and practitioners including social workers, nurses, psychologists and occupational therapists. It will be jointly run by the Department of Health and Social Care and the Ministry of Justice.
This delivers on calls from organisations including the Care Quality Commission, Mencap and Mind for the implementation of new Liberty Protection Safeguards to replace the outdated Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards.
For example, under the current system:
A lady in the advanced stages of dementia, who for over three years has had no concept of place, person or time and cannot walk, talk or chew, is required to have an assessment every year.
The assessment involves a GP, social worker, care home staff, admin staff and her advocate, and results in a long, report to determine whether she should be deprived of her liberty and if the care home is the best place for her.
Part of this assessment includes a GP visit who asks her a string of questions, despite this vulnerable individual having no indication of understanding or even awareness of anyone being there and cannot give any response.
This repetitive process is distressing for her family to witness every year and to be told they are depriving their loved one of liberty. Many other people have conditions like this which are unchanging.
Liberty Protection Safeguards will allow for existing assessments to be reused, or for assessments to last for longer than one year. This will reduce the need for intrusive processes, which can be harmful or distressing for individuals and their families, and will allow for better focus on people who most need support and protection.
Minister of State for Care Stephen Kinnock said: “Safeguarding the vulnerable and protecting their rights is our absolute priority of this government – this is about fixing a broken system by hearing directly from those with lived experience and their families.
“There is currently a shameful backlog in the system of unprocessed cases under the current system which means that people’s rights are not being protected. At the same time, we know that many people in the system and their families find these intrusive assessments distressing.
“This is about ensuring we are fully focused on the most vulnerable people in our society and their families – understanding their needs, ending the maze of referrals and paperwork, and delivering the best protections and safeguards possible.”
A 2014 Supreme Court ruling, known as Cheshire West, established an ‘acid test’ which broadened the definition of what it means to be ‘deprived of liberty’ and led to an increase of 300,000 referrals between 2013-14 and 2023-24 – in addition to a backlog of 125,000 cases.
Each case represents an extremely vulnerable person who needs comprehensive care and support and does not have the mental capacity to make decisions about their care alone.
In August, Northern Ireland put forward a challenge to the Supreme Court about the Cheshire West ‘acid test’ and what is considered a ‘deprivation of liberty’. This is a challenge to the current Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, with any ruling having a UK wide impact.
The UK government has been granted permission by the Supreme Court to intervene in this case – as it recognises the issue within the current system and sought to be part of this vital conversation and put forward a UK wide solution.
The responses from this consultation will be used to inform a final Mental Capacity Act (2005) Code of Practice which will be laid in Parliament.
The revised Code of Practice will incorporate changes in case law, legislation, organisational structures, terminology, and good practice since 2007 addressing critical challenges in the existing Deprivations of Liberty Safeguards framework.
The last time the Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice and Liberty Protection Safeguards were consulted on was in 2022 which did not lead to any changes.
The Centre, Livingston, one of Scotland largest shopping centres, adds Wingstop and Flying Tiger to its list of 12 new openings, creating over 100 jobs for the local area.
Since the start of the year the shopping centre has welcomed the arrival of a 90-seater Starbucks café, Aunty Anne’s, F.Hinds, XXXTRA and last month, ArrowHeadz first darts store in the country.
Plans for further openings before Christmas include Wingstop’s 4,780 sq.ft. restaurant, the Danish lifestyle brand, Flying Tiger, MINISO, Cake Box and Pizza Dawgz. Marble Buffet is expected to open its 380-seater restaurant next summer, which will be their first site in a Scottish mall.
In addition to new openings, various retailers are also expanding and relocating including JD Sports, which will move from a 9,500 sq ft to a 14,800 sq ft prime location and also Born in Scotland.
Clintons has just relocated and opened a new-look store, which is the first of its kind in Scotland, featuring new furniture, fittings and a refreshed layout, designed to enhance the overall shopping experience.
Retailers which have extended their lease include Lush, Las Iguanas, Foot Locker, Smiggle, Krispy Kreme, Deichmann, Menkind, The Celtic Shop and Subway.
The new arrivals will add to the extensive range of over 150 stores and restaurants at the shopping centre, which spans over 1 million sq. ft. and attracts 14.8 million visitors a year from around the country.
These include M&S, Flannels, River Island, H&M, Primark, wagamama and Nando’s.
Owners of The Centre, Livingston, LCP UK, part of M Core, one of Europe’s leading, privately owned commercial property development and management companies, have also recently announced major expansion plans into the leisure sector with the opening of Hollywood Bowl in 2026, featuring 22 lanes, an arcade and a bar and diner.
Simon Eatough, Director at LCP UK, part of M Core and Asset Manager of The Centre, Livingston, said: “This is a really exciting time for us at The Centre, Livingston as we welcome 12 new retailers to our existing, wide mix of great places to shop and dine out, and create over 100 new jobs for the local area.
“The new openings allow us to strengthen our commitment to revitalising our offering at the shopping centre and provide something for everyone who visits us.
“We will continue to add even more new global brands to our portfolio to ensure we remain firmly on the Scottish map as the number one shopping centre to visit, with further announcements coming soon.”
Holyrood’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee is seeking views on a Bill which would mean cosmetic treatments such as fillers, Botox, chemical peels and microneedling would be subject to greater regulation.
The Non-surgical Procedures and Functions of Medical Reviewers (Scotland) Bill is seeking to regulate the provision of certain non-surgical procedures, where a non-surgical procedure is defined as a procedure that pierces or penetrates an individual’s skin.
If passed, it would mean the treatments identified by the Bill would have to be administered by a registered healthcare professional, in a registered healthcare setting.
The Bill would make it illegal for under-18s to receive these treatments.
The Bill would also introduce enforcement powers for authorities and would give Scottish Ministers powers to impose further restrictions or to change the list of procedures covered by the Bill, through regulations.
Some of the procedures covered by the Bill include:
Ablative laser treatment e.g. laser skin resurfacing
Cellulite subcision e.g. cellulite dimple removal or Cellfina®
Chemical peel e.g. skin peel or facial peel
Dermal microcoring e.g. Ellacor® Treatment, removal of tiny cores of skin using hollow needles.
Intravenous procedure e.g. IV drip therapy, beauty IV drips
Microneedling e.g. skin needling, Dermapen® microneedling
Thread Lift e.g. PDO (Polydioxanone), PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), cat or fox eye thread lift
Speaking as the call for views was launched, Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, said:“Our Committee is aware that the use and administering of non-surgical procedures for cosmetic purposes has grown hugely in popularity over the last few years.
“But we are also aware of concerns that there may be risks when those providing treatments aren’t suitably trained to do so.
“This Scottish Government Bill proposes to strengthen the regulation of who can receive and administer these treatments, and where these can be carried out.
“We are seeking the views of business owners on how this could impact their business. We’re keen to hear the experiences of individuals who receive these treatments, whether positive or negative, on how the changes proposed could impact them.
“We are also keen to gather the views of health professionals and organisations on whether they support the proposals in the Bill. So please get in touch.”
Government reports the urgent need for more Work Experience opportunities
Reports also indicate that those from privileged backgrounds are 2.5 times more likely to build a career in creative occupations than their working-class peers.
Discover! Creative Careers (DCC) aims to reach 10,000 young people across Scotland in its new partnership with Into Film Scotland.
28 Years Later screening & Talk with Drone Operator, Robbie Jones (Edinburgh + Glasgow)
Grow screening & Q&A with Director John McPhail + Actor Sanjeev Kohli (Falkirk)
Game Design workshop with DYW Live & Skills Development Scotland
Discover Creative Careers Week Scotland runs from 10 to 14 November to coincide with Scottish Careers Week.
Into Film Scotland, part of Into Film the UK’s leading charity for film in education and the community, have announced a series of upcoming events as part of Discover! Creative Careers Week Scotland taking place from 10 to 14 November to coincide with Scottish Careers Week.
This announcement comes as recent reports from Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Career Development Institute indicate an urgent need for more Work Experience opportunities for young people and that those form privileged backgrounds are 2.5 times more likely to build a career in creative occupations than their working-class peers.
Upcoming events include Creative Catalyst at Perth Creative Exchange on Thursday 13th November. The session will be an opportunity to explore and experiment with expressive mark-making, materials and processes. This is for young people based in Perth and Kinross, developing their art portfolio to apply to further or higher education or with an interest in a creative career.
There will also be screenings in Edinburgh and Glasgow of recent hits 28 Years Later followed by a talk from the film’s Drone Operator Robbie Jones as well as a screening in Falkirk of new Scottish film Grow with Q&A fromDirector John McPhail & Actor Sanjeev Kohli. The programme of events across the week also includes a Game Design workshop from DYW Live & Skills Development Scotland which is one of DCC’s year-round activities.
Into Film will also run a special online webinar for parents and carers during Discover! Creative Careers Week in collaboration with Developing the Young Workforce and delivered during Skills Development Scotland’s Scottish Careers Week.
New opportunities are being added weekly, future offers to include games, museums and galleries, animation, fashion and textiles, heritage, film and tv, libraries and archives, visual art, and music.
Employers in the creative industries in Scotland can register their interest to participate in the programme here. Schools and educators can find out more and access the main Teacher and Careers Leaders hub here.
REPORTS FINDINGS
A paper on Work Based Learning the Career Development Institute highlighted the importance of events such as these providing practical, in-person experience.
For reference, this importance was also emphasised in the Gatsby Good Career Guidance (used in other UK nations but not Scotland), which includes in its framework that ‘by the age of 16, every pupil should have had meaningful experiences of workplaces’ and also points out that ‘these encounters could be in person or a combination of in-person and virtual, where appropriate.’
Therefore, although virtual opportunities are one way for pupils to gain experience, these should be part of a mix of methods that should include in-person experiences too.
Research from by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport after the Covid-19 pandemic (conducted in 2022 and updated in 2025) [2] alsofound that employers from the creative industries are more likely to cite ‘lack of work experience the company demands’ as a reason for their difficulties in filling hard-to-fill roles – 18.6% vs. 12.6% for overall employers.
They also found that employers cited that ‘applicants lack the required skills’ as their top reason – 44.5% vs. 31.1% for overall employers.
This paints a worrying picture of the skills and experience gaps for the creative industries. The paper also highlights that those from privileged backgrounds are 2.5 times more likely to end up in creative occupations than their working-class peers.
In a recent State of the Nations research report by Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre and produced by Work Advance, on the skills mismatch in the creative industries, findings included structural issues in the mismatch between the skills that people currently have and what the industry needs and how best to take them through education and training.
The report concludes that 65% of ‘hard-to-fill’ vacancies in the creative industries are attributable to skills shortages, compared with just 41% of ‘hard-to-fill’ vacancies across all sectors.
Skills shortages are most pronounced for higher-skilled roles, with 78% of creative industries employers experiencing such deficiencies (in the three highest occupations), compared with 31% across all industries.
Creative industries employers are more likely to report having to delay developing new products or services because of the skills shortages they face.
Skills gaps caused by the introduction of new technology (including but not limited to AI) and the development of new products and services are a particular challenge for creative businesses.
The report talks about the need to ensure that young people develop the skills they need to fill these roles and that these skills need to be agile and flexible to enable flourishing in multiple roles or parts of the sector (and outside of it). They are also informed by the reality of the nature of the sector and opportunity differences based on geography.
The report also discusses the need to increase diversity the sector and recognise the need to broaden out access and opportunities for young people, regardless of their background. The report highlights that if this is not addressed, the socio-economic diversity gap will only worsen and there will be even fewer stories made by people who we need to hear from.
In September after a competitive tender process, Into Film was awarded the contract to implement the Discover! Creative Careers programme in Scotland across 2025 – 2026. Working in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), Discover! Creative Careers in Scotland has an ambition to reach at least 10,000 young people across 2025-2026.
Into Film Scotland is part of Into Film, the UK’s leading charity for film in education and the community. They provide screen industry careers information and advice, support young filmmakers, and bring the power of moving image storytelling into classroom teaching and youth provision across Scotland.
Clare Gibson, Discover Creative Careers Lead, Scotland has said: “We are thrilled to be launching this year’s programme for Discover! Creative Careers Scotland, for the week of the 10-14 November and beyond.
“The creative industry in Scotland is an exciting and interesting sector to work in, and we are delighted that we can work with employers and partners to offer a range of activities and events that can support young people to consider a career in the creative industries.
“We have new opportunities being added weekly; and you can expect to see future offers to include games, museums and galleries, animation, fashion and textiles, heritage, film and tv, libraries and archives, visual art, and music.
“Discover! Creative Careers Week Scotland is just the beginning, – the programme is running until March 2026, and there is much more to come!”
To keep up to date with all things Discover! In Scotland, you can visit the website to register your interest and search the opportunity finder for activity in Scotland:
