Fair Start Scotland - We Helped 16,500 people!
April 12, 2024Posted by:
New referrals to Scottish Government’s national Fair Start Scotland (FSS) employability service will cease to be taken from 31 March 2024.
Fair Start Scotland participants who remain on the service from 1 April 2024 will continue to receive the full range of employability support they need to move into work from FSS Providers, which could include up to 18 months pre-work and up to 12 months in work support (depending on participant’s circumstances).
From 1 April 2024, No One Left Behind, Scottish Government & Local Governments shared approach to delivering an all-age, place-based, person-centered model of employability support in Scotland, will receive referrals previously referred to FSS Providers.
No One Left Behind promotes a strengthened partnership approach between Scottish Government and Local Government, utilising public, private, and third sector organisations to deliver employability services tailored to local area needs.
To find out more about No One Left Behind local employability support where you live, including single points of contact details for all age services, employability related information and more, please click on this link for details.
FSS Providers can also advise and assist in directing you to No One Left Behind services from 1 April 2024.
Arlene Callan, Director for PeoplePlus Scotland said "We are exceptionally proud to be able to say that along with our dedicated supply chain partners we made a direct difference to the lives of 16.500 people who joined our Fair Start Scotland employability programme."
We have so many stories to share from the people we have supported and here are just a few of them.
David Wu
David, a 31-year-old brave individual, had been trapped in a harrowing ordeal at a puppy farm where he toiled relentlessly, receiving only rations as compensation. Fortunately, the RSPCA launched an investigation into the puppy farm, leading to police intervention and David's eventual rescue.
Recognising David's desperate need for assistance, PeoplePlus stepped in to offer a helping hand. David immediately engaged with the local community, seeking guidance and support from the organisation. Determined to rebuild his life, he demonstrated unwavering commitment and resilience throughout his journey.
Under the expert guidance of his dedicated keyworker, David received assistance in various aspects of his professional development. Together, they crafted his CV and filled out application forms, ensuring David's qualifications and experiences were effectively highlighted. Furthermore, mock interviews were conducted, empowering David with the necessary confidence to excel in his upcoming job interviews.
Understanding the importance of digital skills in today's job market, PeoplePlus Scotland also dedicated resources to improving David's IT skills. Through tailored training and support, he gained the necessary knowledge and confidence to navigate online job search platforms and submit applications efficiently.
Through collaborative efforts with Brightwork, a trusted partner organisation, PeoplePlus managed to secure a life-changing opportunity for David. He has now embarked on a new career journey as a driver’s mate with Best Connection, a reputable company known for its fair practices and commitment to employee welfare.
This job placement not only provides David with a source of stable income but also a significant step towards reclaiming his life. The position offers fair compensation and the opportunity to rebuild his future on a solid foundation. As David embraces this new chapter, he is grateful for the unwavering support and guidance he received whilst on PeoplePlus Scotland's Fair Start Scotland programme.
Bolance
As a lone parent raising three children, she dedicated years to completing her education while simultaneously looking after her family. However, when the time came to enter the workforce, Bolance encountered various challenges.
The primary obstacle being childcare constraints, which severely limited the hours she could commit to employment. This restriction made it difficult for Bolance to find suitable job opportunities that could accommodate her responsibilities as a parent. Despite these hurdles, Bolance remained determined to secure employment and provide a better future for her family.
Fortunately, Fair Start Scotland stepped in to provide the support and resources needed to overcome these challenges. Recognising the importance of bolstering her confidence and social skills, Bolance participated in a five-week group organised by Fair Start Scotland. This programme proved instrumental in helping her break down barriers to socialising and interacting effectively with others.
Bolance actively engaged in workshops organised by Fair Start Scotland aimed at enhancing her employability skills. These workshops focused on crafting a compelling CV, writing effective cover letters, and refining her communication skills. With the guidance of her Key Worker Michael, Bolance developed a strong CV that laid the foundation for her successful job search.
Setting her sights on a term-time, school-hours position as a Support Worker, Bolance found a job that perfectly aligned with her schedule and childcare needs. This role, conveniently located near her home, offered 16-20 hours per week, offering a good balance between work and family responsibilities.
With the support of Fair Start Scotland, Bolance confidently attended the job interview and ultimately secured the position. Her accomplishment not only signifies a personal triumph but also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of Fair Start Scotland's tailored approach in assisting individuals facing unique challenges to employment.
To further ease Bolance's transition into employment, PeoplePlus extended additional support by covering her traveling expenses until she received her first wage. This gesture ensures a seamless and successful transition into the workforce for Bolance.
Connor
Connor had previously been working for a call centre however due to being on the Autistic spectrum found it difficult to concentrate at times and left the position very demotivated. He was then unemployed for seven months and he felt disadvantaged with being on the Autistic Scale.
Connor found out about the Fair Start Scotland programme through his Work Coach at his Job Centre Plus. After joining Fair Start Scotland with PeoplePlus he was provided with his own Key Worker and Trainer. They were able to support him with writing his CV, searching for jobs, job applications and personal development. Plus he had support from people who understood what his needs were and his personal circumstances.
Connor said “PeoplePlus helped with deal with the rejections from job applications and interviews. With the support of my Key Worker at PeoplePlus and the Trainer, I was able to do various courses live online such as the Progression Group which helped my mental health. I also took part in the five-week route-way covering everything from interview skills to CV skills, to cover letters and communication skills. At the beginning of the courses, I was apprehensive however the Trainer put me at ease and really helped me to focus”.
After all the help and support from PeoplePlus Connor received an offer for a new job with Glasgow City Council.
“It's a graduate role within change management which is what I did for my dissertation whilst I was at uni. The work will still be done from home for the time being, but they will be looking at a form of blended working between home and the City Chambers in the coming weeks and months.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for all your help over the past year.
It really means a lot. Throughout the progression groups and our one-to-one sessions, it's helped massively in terms of my confidence in moving forward. It’s been a true inspiration being a participant with PeoplePlus and Fair Start Scotland. I would recommend this programme to everyone and especially for someone who is on the Autistic spectrum. A massive thanks again.”
Michael
We are delighted to share the inspiring journey of Michael, a participant on the Fair Start Scotland service. Michael, joined the service in March 2023, seeking support to overcome various challenges he faced.
Michael spoke with Paul, a member of our Engagement Team during the weekly hub sessions that take place. It became evident that Michael faced child poverty due to living in a deprived area and being a single parent. Additionally, he had been dealing with poor mental health resulting from a period of unemployment.
Recognising Michael's potential, our partners at Men Matter in Drumchapel became involved, and Craig, his dedicated Keyworker, worked diligently to build trust and boost Michael's confidence. Craig highlighted the skills and abilities Michael possessed, empowering him to pursue employment opportunities.
Driven by a desire to assist others who had faced similar circumstances, Michael set his sights on a Keyworker position within PeoplePlus. Craig provided guidance, preparing him for the application and interview process. Michael's determination and preparation paid off when he was offered the role!
Michael is thoroughly enjoying his new role and the routine it provides. Interacting with and meeting new teammates has been a positive experience for him. Michael is excited about the prospect of earning a higher income, enabling him to engage in more quality activities with his young son.
We will continue to support those already on programme for up to 18 months pre-work and up to 12 months in work support. We look forward to seeing how their lives change throughout their time on Fair Start Scotland.
April 12, 2024Posted by:
