New approach aims to help unemployed

Jobless Monklands residents have the chance to receive personalised support to find suitable, sustainable work after the launch of a new employment project.

Fair Start Scotland has been unveiled by Remploy Scotland, with an office based in Airdrie.

The organisation anticipate supporting more than 5000 people and say those who choose to take part will have access to a service that is “flexible, tailored and responsive to individual needs”.

Remploy Scotland will be supported by a range of providers so people have access to the support they need.

It is delivering Fair Start Scotland in partnership with Enable Scotland, a charity for people with learning disabilities, and Routes to Work South in Lanarkshire.

As well as the office in Airdrie Business Centre and another in Hamilton, the project also has more than 25 outreach locations across Lanarkshire.

Remploy chief executive Gareth Parry said: “We are delighted to begin delivery of Fair Start Scotland in Lanarkshire. We have developed an innovative approach to deliver the service, offering people personalised support to enable them to achieve their ambitions and thrive in the workplace.”

Participation is voluntary and choosing to take part will not affect existing benefits.

Fair Start Scotland participants will have access to face-to-face meetings with employment specialists, guidance on training and qualifications, work trials and apprenticeship opportunities and health and wellbeing support.

They will also have access to the Transforming Lives Community, a network of more than 50 organisations across Scotland.

To find out more contact Remploy on 0300 456 8050 or email hamilton@mail.remploy. co.uk.