Firm Foundations
This Inverclyde wide partnership initiative encompassing three of the area’s largest employers and service providers - River Clyde Homes, Inverclyde Community Development Trust (The Trust) and Inverclyde Council, together with In Work, meet the PCF priority of tackling poverty by developing the life-skills of young people and reducing the high incidences of unemployment and benefit dependency within the Inverclyde area. CLS have worked with River Clyde Homes across Inverclyde to create a Firm Foundations project which provides training in environmental and construction works to individuals (including the most vulnerable) who currently face multiple barriers to employment. Funding for this ongoing project has been secured from the Scottish Government People in Communities Fund and active partners to produce a project with an annual budget in excess of £300,000.
The aim was to improve the environments and life chances of individuals in key communities across Inverclyde. Outputs have included:
£825,000 Funding secured from Scottish Government Wider Role and People and Communities Fund as match for Inverclyde Council funds
152 waged training places benefiting unemployed local people
24 community environments enhanced
85 individuals gained employment or progressed into further education