Communities across Scotland will receive a share of a £168 million windfall as part of a national skills development programme to strengthen Scotland’s workforce. Education Secretary Michael Russell made the announcement at the Orkney Street Enterprise Centre in Glasgow this morning where he met young people involved in employability courses.

The STUC, Community Planning Partnerships, Skills Development Scotland, the Scottish Funding Council and other third sector organisations are topping up £64.6 million of European Structural Funds to deliver a total investment of £168 million.

This funding will deliver employability and training services for the unemployed, the lowest paid and people from deprived areas, ranging from early engagement through to in-work support and skills development.

Mr Russell said: 

“This crucial funding boost will support those who are unemployed, particularly young people, low paid or disadvantaged to improve existing skills and develop new ones to help them into jobs which are rewarding and have a future.

“Today’s announcement complements the current and planned work of our local and national partners, including the voluntary sector, unions, local authorities and skills and training bodies to develop people’s skills to the benefit of Scotland’s economic future.” 

To find out more view the video below or read the full news release.