Get help to find work and stay in work at Fair Start

Fair Start Scotland is Scotland’s new devolved employment support service.

It is focused on supporting unemployed people who have challenges in accessing the labour market for whom work is a realistic prospect.

Launched in April this year, it is an example of one of the first uses of newly devolved powers under the 2016 Scotland Act.

The service will run until 2023 and aims to provide tailored, flexible and person-centred support to at least 38,000 people across Scotland who want help to find work, and stay in work. Fair Start Scotland is distinctive in that participation is voluntary.

This means that people have everything to gain and nothing to lose – choosing to participate won’t affect existing benefits or be driven by fear of benefit sanctions.

The service is based on partnership and joint working between the Scottish Government and the public, third and private sectors to deliver better outcomes for people seeking employment support.

While quality standards are consistent across Scotland, the service is delivered locally, meaning that no participants are left without the support they need.

Delivery is over nine geographic areas and reflect local area economies, meeting the needs of employers, disabled people and those at risk of long- term unemployment.

Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, said: “What’s crucial about Fair Start Scotland is that it treats people with fairness, dignity and respect and that it is focused on the needs of the individual. We are dedicated to delivering a high quality employment support service that will lead to real and sustained job outcomes and help people to achieve their full potential.

“As well as meeting the needs of unemployed people, Fair Start Scotland also seeks to help businesses find the skilled and committed employees they need to thrive.”

●To find out more and check whether you are eligible, you can contact the service provider who is responsible for delivering Fair Start Scotland in your area by visiting www. mygov.scot/fairstart.

What’s crucial is that it treats people with fairness, dignity and respect and is focused on the individual