New focus on training

Cash for Coupar project

A new project in Coupar Angus which aims to explore how to meet local training needs has been awarded £20,000.

Funding for the project comes from a Scottish Government-led programme supported by the European Social Fund as part of their Aspiring Communities initiative.

The project, which is being run by local development trust Forward Coupar Angus (FCA), aims to increase training opportunities by harnessing knowledge and skills already in the community and channelling them through skills sharing workshops and apprenticeships.

Project manager Ian Simpson said: “Training is the process of learning skills you need to do a particular job or activity and it can take many different forms.

“For many people training is a part of their everyday lives but for others even basic training can sometimes feel beyond their grasp.

“This project, which got under way last week, aims to address this.”

The first part of the project will involve gathering information on training needs in the area from the perspectives of both local employers and individuals and building partnerships between organisations interested in contributing to future training initiatives.

The information gathered will be used to help develop a training agenda for the Coupar Angus area.

Ian explained: “The long-term vision is the development of a social enterprise: a community-led education and training centre for rural, environmental, hospitality, civic and citizenship skills which can service the needs of Coupar Angus and the surrounding area.

“After the first phase of the project we will be looking for funding to help realise the long-term vision and start delivering targeted training to the local community.

“FCA is also working to secure a venue in Coupar Angus through which the training activities could eventually be delivered.”

FCA chair John Palfreyman said: “This is an exciting new venture for us and one which will realise tangible benefits for the people of Coupar Angus and the community as a whole.

“It builds on what we’ve achieved already and will provide lots of opportunities for local people to get involved as both trainers and trainees.”

To find out more about the project contact Ian Simpson by email at fcafolder@gmail. com or by calling 01828 626211.