Voluntary Action Training is a not for profit limited company no: SC377230, based in the offices of Third Sector Hebrides at 30 Francis Street, Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. The company delivers work-related projects and learning funded through the Scottish Government’s Fair Start programme.

The Fairstart service was launched in April 2018 to provide “tailored, person centred support to a minimum of 38,000 people who are furthest removed from the labour market.” (Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Employability and Training). FSS is a voluntary service, with the majority of referrals coming from Job Centre Plus, although anyone who is not currently working may be eligible.

Participants attend 1-1 appointments with their Key Worker for 8 weeks, focussing on their specific requirements, such as building a CV, identifying their skills and any barriers to employment, with signposting to other agencies for assistance where necessary. This is then followed by optional group sessions for the remainder of their year on FSS. These sessions focus on improving an individual’s overall health and wellbeing, as well as coaching in employability skills and range from mental health workshops and employer presentations to group walks and cycles.

Support can continue once participants move into employment, in order to address any issues that might present challenges once in work.

For more information please contact Janet Macleod (jmacleod@tshebrides.org.uk) or Angus Maclennan (amaclennan@tshebrides.org.uk) by email or by telephone on 01851 702632.