Impact Arts Pops-Up in Paisley!

Over the last 5 weeks, Impact Arts has been working with a talented team of young people in Renfrewshire. We’ve taken our life changing employability programme, Creative Pathways to an empty shop unit in Paisley and turned it into a hub of creativity!

 

Impact Arts has worked with thousands of people throughout Scotland through Creative Pathways, to give young people the skills they need to forge a career in the creative industries.

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Kirsty Gallacher, Programme Manager Impact Arts said:

 

“This is the first time the programme has been available in Renfrewshire, thanks to an exciting partnership with Renfrewshire Council. The team at the Youth Employability Hub have been absolutely brilliant and we’re looking forward to seeing how the partnership develops.

 

“The young people on the Creative Pathways programme have exceeded all expectations with their creativity and dedication – the tutors have been singing their praises. I know they’ve all got a bright future ahead of them.”

 

Thirteen young people aged 16-19 and not currently in employment, have immersed themselves in an inspiring programme, learning skills such as designing for retail, furniture upcycling, crafts for the home and fashion accessories. Their creative learning is strengthened by gaining practical experience in retail and customer service, commissioned projects and team building skills. They’ve also received personal development support and are on the way to gaining an accredited SQA qualification.

 

Councillor Roy Glen, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Jobs Policy Board, said:

 

“Renfrewshire Council is delighted to be working with Impact Arts and to support the Creative Pathways project in Renfrewshire.

 

“Through our Invest in Renfrewshire programme to tackle unemployment, we have already helped hundreds of local young people into work.

 

“We welcome programmes like Creative Pathways which engage and support young people in their quest for employment. The programme has been well received by young people themselves and promises excellent results.”

 

The young people are celebrating their success on the programme so far, by hosting a pop-up shop selling items that they have designed and manufactured. Themes include Paisley’s rich heritage and shoppers can expect a range of unique designs at affordable price that celebrate the town. The shop will be open for a month.

 

Kirsty, 19, a participant on the Creative Pathways Renfrewshire programme said:

 

“Creative Pathways has changed my life. It’s given me something to do – I used to just go out drinking before but all that’s stopped. I’ve never done anything creative but I’m hooked on sewing now – I love it!

 

“When the programme is finished me and one of the other girls are starting our own clothing business, we’re going to Business Gateway to get advice. This wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Creative Pathways.”

Author

Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X