TENANTS of Scottish Borders Housing Association who are seeking work will receive more help in finding a job or training opportunities following a successful application for funding.
SBHA has received a funding award from the Scottish Government’s People and Communities Fund and the Department of Work and Pensions for a new two year project to employ a specialist employability advisor to work with young, unemployed tenants.
The advisor will provide one-to-one advice and support to address barriers to work, help tenants prepare for work and assist them in finding job and training opportunities.
SBHA already offers tenants free welfare benefits advice and money management support.
Maria Lyle, SBHA’s director of housing, said: “Supporting the needs of SBHA tenants and their communities is one of our main priorities and we are delighted that the Scottish Government and the DWP are supporting this service.
“Tenants who are struggling to find jobs talk to us about the barriers and difficulties they face; this new service to SBHA tenants responds directly to their concerns.”
Nicola McIlwraith, the housing association’s revenue income manager added: “The employability project builds on our approach to financial inclusion for SBHA tenants, broadening the services we provide to tenants and expanding our capacity to provide support and create sustainable communities.
“From April this year, this project will support young tenants aged 18-24 who are out of work by coaching them through a tailored programme to help them overcome the barriers they face in accessing employment and further develop their skills, such as CV writing, interview skills and job search.”
The advisor will also work with employers and other agencies across the region to maximise routes to employment including education, work placements and apprenticeships.