Employability teams changing thousands of lives in Renfrewshire

Renfrewshire Council’s employability services have supported more than 1,900 residents in the past year, helping people overcome barriers to work and secure positive employment, education and training opportunities.

Delivered through the Council’s Invest in Renfrewshire programme, in partnership with the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership (LEP), the services achieved outstanding results in 2024/25 including:

• 528 people supported into employment
• 150 people progressing into education, training or volunteering
• 680 people gaining qualifications

The programme prioritises support for those facing the greatest challenges, including disabled people, lone parents, care-experienced young people, and those with long-term health conditions.

Kevin, seeking a career change, gained work experience through Invest in Renfrewshire and is now employed full-time as an engineer with George Leslie Ltd.

Kevin said: “I first approached Invest in Renfrewshire as I was looking for a job in construction and thanks to their links with local employers, I was able to gain work experience – and then a full-time job – with George Leslie Ltd.

“I really enjoy working as an engineer with the team across various projects as every day is different & there’s always a new something new to learn. Since starting with George Leslie, I have been able to develop myself with the support of my team & through further training.

“I would not hesitate to recommend others to contact Invest in Renfrewshire if you are looking for help to secure employment”.

A wide range of commissioned services have been delivered by local and national partners, offering tailored support across themes such as mental health, self-employment, vocational training, and support for refugees and asylum seekers.

Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Board, said: “Our employability services are making a real difference in people’s lives by supporting them to get their first jobs, change their career and to access  training and support – anything which helps them towards a brighter future.

“More than 500 people have moved into employment because of the support our team have provided, as well as 680 qualifications achieved too. This is brilliant and testament to the tireless work of our council teams and partners.”

Employment support continues to be available to Renfrewshire residents and local services and opportunities across the area can be accessed via the council website at https://www1.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2138/Jobs-training-and-apprenticeships