Praise for new jobs support plan

Deputy First Minister John Swinney has praised a new employment support scheme, aimed at giving job seekers across Perth and Kinross access to personalised support to find suitable, sustainable work.

Fair Start Scotland offers personalised help, provides pre-work support for 12-18 months and in-work support for a further 12 months.

It will also provide assistance to those who require intensive or specialist support.

The service, which is being rolled out across the country, is entirely voluntary and has received up to £96 million of Scottish Government funding, with contracts worth £7.3 million awarded in the Tayside region.

Mr Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, said: “The new Fair Start Scotland service is rooted in respect, dignity and fairness. I would encourage any eligible constituents in Perthshire North that are currently out of work to consider enrolling in this first-class scheme.

“The Scottish Government realises that the way to help people find work is not through punishment and intimidation, but rather by supporting individuals and nurturing their talents.”

He added: “This is yet another example of the SNP’s desire to provide support to those most in need, and I look forward to seeing the benefits Perthshire North will reap from this exciting service.”

Fair Start Scotland launched on April 3.