ACT Argyll was first established between August 2015 and October 2016. The aim was to equip trainees and assistants with the skills and experience they needed to move into full-time employment whilst providing communities with services which enhanced local areas. Two teams were established – one in Oban and one in Helensburgh. Six trainees were employed on 12-month contracts to carry out environmental improvement works under the supervision of two experienced Chargehands and a Skills and Contracts Manager. The teams established Sector Based Work Academies with Job Centre Plus and took on Assistants on 8-week paid work experience placements.

Works included path maintenance, landscaping, garden maintenance, and woodwork.

The project was funded by the People and Communities Fund (Scottish Government) in partnership with Dunbritton Housing Association. The partnership brought together ACT, Forestry Commission Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, West Highland Housing Association and Dunbritton Housing Association.