Minister announces £228,000 for pilot projects to help more people into work

The business and employment minister has announced a £228,000 fund to help get more people into work.

The Scottish Government said the cash enable Scots with “diverse needs”, including disabled people and those with long-term health conditions, to stay in employment.

Training specialists Flexibility Works will receive £96,100 to equip manufacturing sector employers with the knowledge and tools to adopt and embed sustainable, flexible working practices.

National representative body the Scottish Union for Supported Employment (SUSE) will receive £98,737 to disabled people and people with long term conditions to stay in work.

And Business in the Community will receive £33,969 to deliver workshops on inclusive hiring and progression initiatives within public sector organisations to help managers to attract and support “diverse talent”.

Mr Lochhead confirmed the cash on Tuesday at the Scottish Leather Group in Bridge of Weir, where staff already benefit from initiatives such as compressed hours and reduced hours for people approaching retirement.

He said: “This new funding will help provide flexible and supportive working environments and contribute to a more dynamic, diverse, and resilient jobs market in Scotland.

“This has significant benefits for workers and means employers like Scottish Leather Group can draw from a wider talent pool.

“The Scottish Government is committed to helping people remain in work and strengthening pathways into employment for those furthest from the jobs market.

“This new funding will promote flexible working, support disabled employees and people at risk of economic inactivity.”

Nikki Slowey, co-founder and director of Flexibility Works, added: “People’s lives are constantly changing, whether that’s with children, caring for older relatives or for health needs, and we know many people drop out of work altogether if the juggle between work and home life becomes too stressful.

“Employers that are attuned to this and are able to be flexible can keep hold of talented and experienced staff.

“Often people only want small changes, such as a little home working or to start and finish at slightly different times.

“This enables people to keep working, which is good for their finances and wellbeing as well as delivering benefits for their employer and our wider economy.”