People in Renfrewshire who have been out of work and receiving health related benefits for more than two years will soon be able to access new support in getting back into employment.
The “Working Matters” Programme is the first employability service to be funded through the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal. Renfrewshire Council has committed more than £500,000 to the programme and a similar amount is being provided through DWP as part of its City Deal commitment.
The programme started on 24th August 2015 is run by Invest in Renfrewshire, the council’s employability and business support partnership which has already helped nearly 3000 residents into work or training.
“Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council said: “We are determined to ensure that City Deal opportunities reach all of Renfrewshire’s communities and benefit those people who need help to make the most of them. This is a £1m investment in our residents and their potential.”
The City Deal is also investing £274million in infrastructure projects in Renfrewshire. A surface link between the airport and Glasgow city Centre with a stop at Paisley Gilmour Street will support the airport’s growth, create jobs, and improve Renfrewshire’s connections with the wider City Deal Area. The Airport Investment Zone will encourage business growth by linking the business parks at the airport, Inchinnan and Westway to create a uniquely integrated business location. The Renfrew Riverside project includes a bridge to span the Clyde between Renfrew and Yoker; opening up vacant land for development and creating a new access to jobs and markets throughout the region.
Councillor Macmillan continued: “It is difficult to over- estimate the economic expansion that the City Deal’s infrastructure projects will bring to Renfrewshire. This, together with our town centre regeneration strategies and our commitment to tackling poverty, will help to build a thriving and fairer future for Renfrewshire. “
Invest in Renfrewshire can help many people to overcome barriers that make it difficult to find a job or stay in employment. To talk to Invest about getting back into work or training, call 0300 300 1180.