Project looks at equality in the workplace

Women’s Aid workers in East Kilbride are hoping to put the spotlight on gender, domestic abuse and employability in town.

The new scheme from the charity, named ‘Building Equality’, will focus on the barriers women face when they want to gain work or progress in their careers, including lack of childcare, appropriate work places or transport.

The employability project is funded by the Scottish Government and co-ordinated by Scottish Women’s Aid in partnership with Close the Gap and Engender.

Working directly with women – supported by Scottish Women’s Aid and partner organisations Engender and Close the Gap – Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER) have secured funding for up to two years to create and develop community based solutions.

Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire’s CEO Heather Russell told the News: “We are delighted to be part of this project.

“Whilst employability goes beyond our experience in delivering domestic abuse support to our service users, it complements directly our organisational aim to challenge structural barriers women face.

“As such, our participation in this project will positively benefit the women and families we work with, and communities we are supported by.”

Dr Marsha Scott of Scottish Women’s Aid also added: “We’re thrilled to be working with Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire on this exciting project.

“The team bring a vital perspective to Building Equality and a wealth of expertise in delivering vital services for women, children and young people across the South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire area.”