Maryhill Housing is marking its 40th birthday with a major announcement on providing bursaries for local people within two of its communities.

The Maryhill Housing Bursary aims to offer a helping hand to tenants or people living in homes factored by the Association in Maryhill or Ruchill.

It is one of the biggest-ever community initiatives undertaken by Maryhill Housing since it was founded in 1977.

Unveiling the bursary, chief executive Bryony Willett said it was aimed at “inspiring people to achieve their educational or career goals”.

A bursary - also known as a grant – can be applied for between now and March next year and the scheme will run each year.

Money is available in various amounts for different educational courses and/or the purchase of books and materials.

Up to £1000 per application is available for higher and further education courses up to degree level.

Up to £750 per application is available for skills-specific training. Examples might include construction skills, health and safety courses, food hygiene and forklift truck training.

Up to £500 per application is available for the purchase of equipment, books and or materials. Examples might include chef’s utensils, hairdressers’ equipment needed for college training and travel costs. Other costs will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The amounts mentioned are the maximum which can be applied for. Applicants can apply for a lower amount.

Bryony added: “This is a hugely-important development and shows that Maryhill Housing is keen to inspire people to attain their goals.

“That might be career progression, undertaking a new college or university course or a helping hand in a variety of ways. The money we have set aside could be the key to unlocking the door to a bright future.”

In a time of austerity with significant changes to benefits, the initiative is seen as the ideal helping hand.