Teenagers in Glasgow have been given a new jobs boost after Glen Oaks Housing Association revealed it is to continue its successful partnership with a charity to offer work-based experience.

The 3-year pioneering programme – known as WorkingRite - has now been extended by a further year thanks to a grant of almost £78,000 from the Scottish Government and a contribution from Glen Oaks of nearly £13,000.

Three out of every four of the young people on its scheme have gone on to find employment or apprenticeships proving the success of the initiative.

The greatly-welcomed Scottish Government contribution is from the People and Communities Fund which supports community organisations to grow and strengthen by delivering results which meet and respond to the aspirations of these communities.

Tackling poverty and promoting social inclusion are key priorities for the Fund.

By the end of the initial 3-year project WorkingRite has fulfilled its pledge to have helped 60 local young people from the Greater Pollok area aged between 16 and 18 find work placements with local employers for between 3 and 6 months. It has also provided mentoring support to make sure the experience is a success.

Now the new cash boost will ensure it lasts another 12 months to help more young people.

During the programme teenagers are paid a training allowance, with the employers also contributing.

Social justice secretary Alex Neil MSP said: “Every community in Scotland has different challenges and aspirations and there is no one-size fits all approach to tackling poverty.

“That’s why our People and Communities Fund is giving projects like WorkingRite the power and confidence to shape their own futures and address inequalities more effectively.

“The Fund gives community groups the chance to identify problems in their area and the funding to provide solutions.”

Elaine McShane, chairperson of Glen Oaks Housing Association, said: “Glen Oaks believes that we will only regenerate our community if we also try to improve the quality of life for all our residents. This includes giving our young people a helping hand to boost their employment prospects.”

Alasdair McKee, chief executive of Glen Oaks Housing Association, added: “We want to thank the Scottish Government for the initial grant funding to make this important work possible and the further money we have now received to continue this important work.”

Dennis Murphy, chief operating officer at WorkingRite, said: “This is a great example of a genuine, successful partnership between WorkingRite, Glen Oaks Housing Association and the Scottish Government. We’re very proud that 3 out of 4 young people from Glen Oaks leave our programme with jobs or apprenticeships and we are grateful for the continued support from both partners to help more local young people make that vital transition to the world of work.”

Anne Wright, project co-ordinator from WorkingRite, added: “I am incredibly proud of all the young men and women from Glen Oaks who have worked hard to secure jobs and apprenticeships through the WorkingRite programme. I’d like to thank the committed and generous employers of the community who give these young people the chance to prove themselves, and invest time and effort in their training and support.”

One of the great successes of the scheme has been Glen Oaks resident Amy McShane who has found work in a florist’s shop after being on her placement there.

Amy (17) who is from Arden, completed her 25-weeks of work with Flora International in Paisley Road West under the supervision of owner Lynn Bentley. Flora International is a small florist with three staff in a busy area of Glasgow.

Eight months after getting her job, Amy is still loving her work at Flora International.

She said: “Having a job has made me mature. I have gained so much and learned a lot. I also now know how to sort out money which is good for the future. I am happy working and hope to continue what I am doing.”

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