Ayrshire teens build therapy garden for vulnerable people.

A teenager from Dalry is building a future in construction while building a professionally landscaped terrace for the use of adults with learning disabilities thanks to The Salvation Army and engineering firm Amey.

Seventeen-year-old Tyler Fleck is one of a group of pupils at Garnock Community Campus who have been gaining hands-on experience by helping revamp a vital outdoor space at The Salvation Army’s site in Kilbirnie, Ayrshire.

Tyler, who hopes to secure an apprenticeship with Amey after leaving school this summer, has been involved in a range of practical tasks including preparing ground and helping with resurfacing work in the George Steven building’s therapeutic garden.

The work experience opportunity is part of a partnership between Amey’s Network Management Contract (NMC) South West, The Salvation Army's Employment Plus service and Garnock Community Campus. The initiative is designed to help young people develop employability skills while making a positive impact in their community. Further training will be provided by the Ayrshire Construction Training Group.

Tyler said: "Before I came here, I didn't realise The Salvation Army supported people with learning disabilities. It has made the experience even better knowing that the work we're doing is helping improve people's lives and giving them better access to the outdoors. The Salvation Army staff and service users made me feel really welcome. I was nervous on my first day but everyone was friendly and supportive.

"I'm a really hands-on person and looking to work in the construction industry, so this has been great for giving me a taste of what to expect and helping me build my confidence."

The George Steven Community Hub is open weekdays and provides a welcoming and supportive environment for adults with disabilities. The outdoor improvements will help service users enjoy safer and easier access to the garden space.

Caroline Dalrymple, Employability Practitioner for The Salvation Army, said: "When we were looking at the groundwork that needed to be carried out at the hub, we wanted to build it into an employability project that would benefit local young people.

"It's not just about getting work experience. The young people go through the full process of applying for the opportunity, preparing their CV, attending an interview and then receiving support to identify and record the skills they've gained.

"That means they leave with practical experience as well as evidence they can use in future applications. Employers are increasingly looking for more than just qualifications. Opportunities like this help young people stand out by demonstrating commitment, initiative and real workplace experience."

The project reflects a shared commitment between The Salvation Army, Amey and local education partners to create meaningful pathways into employment for young people in the Garnock Valley.

Claire Graham, Communications and Social Engagement Lead for Amey, said: “We believe infrastructure projects should deliver lasting benefits beyond the physical works. Our partnership with The Salvation Army at the George Steven Community Hub has enabled us to support young people through hands on experience, employability development, and meaningful engagement with our workforce.

“The success of this project highlights what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared commitment to improving outcomes for local communities, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the completion of the works.”