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March 14, 2016
A new Renfrewshire Council support package that will remove barriers to work by helping job seekers with initial transport and childcare costs is about to be launched.
The Access to Work fund will bridge the gap currently faced by many in being unable to pay for the initial costs of childcare and travel to take on a job. It will be available from April 1.
The fund will be delivered through the council’s successful economic development programme ‘Invest in Renfrewshire’ and will give more people the opportunity to access work,
Councillor Mark Macmillan, Renfrewshire Council Leader, said: “We are committed to targeting resources towards innovative programmes that make a difference to our economy and the lives of people living in poverty – like our Invest in Renfrewshire programme.
“Our Tackling Poverty Fund has enabled us to expand our successful programmes while also taking forward new approaches. Creation of the new Access to Work fund is another key part of that and will bring Renfrewshire social and economic benefits.
“The Access to Work Fund will remove the unfair obstacles that currently prevent many people from being able to start a job. Having initial costs to meet, but not yet having a first pay cheque to cover travel and childcare fees, is a vicious circle. This was specifically highlighted by the Renfrewshire Tackling Poverty Commission and is why Access to Work is being funded from our £6m Tackling Poverty response.
“I am proud this fund is about to be launched to remove barriers, offer immediate support and open up opportunities for more people.”
To be eligible for funding you need to have been out of work and claiming benefit for at least 4 weeks. To apply to the Access to Work Fund, please speak to your local Jobcentre Plus Advisor or call Invest in Renfrewshire on 0300 300 1180 for more information.
