Ministerial Visit to Gorbals office
Employment Minister Tony McNulty MP visited GSERA’s Gorbals office on Thursday 16th April. He met with clients currently using the services at the ‘pre-work’ stage of their journey in getting back into work. The team at GSERA talked the Minister through how GSERA and their partners are delivering the Glasgow Works programme.
The Minister sat in on the Personal and Social Development group where they tackle issues and problems that stop people returning to work - whether that be skills, experience, confidence building, money advice or additional training. It wasn’t a one way discussion and the Minister heard from clients how he could make a difference to ‘the system’ and went away with a number of challenges.
The Learning Base was next on the whistle-stop tour where he spoke to clients keen to build up their IT skills in a relaxed, informal environment. GSERA’s Janice Kerrigan gave the Minister a resume of the work of the clients and spoke about how the Learning Base is often a first step back to work for many people. Base users spoke to the Minister about how the Base had helped them gain certified training which proved their IT skills to potential employers. Another said that the atmosphere in the Base was second to none and that they were never afraid to ask questions – the staff were so friendly and helpful.
He then met with clients on the Community Janitors programme – many of whom, when they finish their training, have jobs lined up in the land maintenance sector as a direct result from the course. A question and answer session then followed with clients on the Skill to Build employer led construction programme, who spoke about how Skill to Build had benefitted them in training and how the offer of an interview and potential job outcome made a difference.
‘I am impressed and encouraged by the continuing focus on those people who will need the most help to move towards work in preparation for the recovery in the Economy. Once again we are proving that Glasgow is at the cutting edge of tackling inequality and poverty.’
Tony McNulty
Employment Minister
Gillian signs deal with global brand
A local designer is about to turn Scotch Pies and plan loaves into fashion icons.
Glasgow School of Art graduate Gillian Kyle has created a line of T-shirts and bags glorifying some of Scotland’s national icons.
The 31 year old has been selling her products, which feature images of plain loaves, Scotch Pies, Westie dogs, Highland cows and sporrans at places such as Sloane’s Market. But she is now set to go global after putting pen to paper on a deal with global fashion brand Asos.
The company has commissioned her to create a line of T-shirts with pictures of legendary Scottish scenes and products on them. The range, which will include T-shirts with pictures of Tunnock’s teacakes, has the support of Uddingston biscuit manufacturer.
Gillian who lives in the Southside said “I graduated from Glasgow School of Art last year and exploring the job market in my field made me all the more determined to start my own business. Having a career in design and staying in Glasgow is a virtual impossibility unless you create that career yourself and being a bit of a nationalist I was highly reluctant to contribute to the brain drain towards London. The idea of instead contributing to the budding creative and design industries in Scotland was far more appealing.”
Until now, Gillian who studied print at art school has sold her goods at markets and at events such as the West End Craft Fair and the Highland Show. But, now with backing from Glasgow South East Regeneration Agency and Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust, she is making the step-up.
Her products are now being sold in Slanj Kilts, Gallently and Tubbs and Nancy Smillie with a website in the pipeline. Prices for her products start at around £10.
Article courtesy of Evening Times – 17/04/09
Start Up! Start Now! – March 18th 2009
Start Up! Start Now! - the business start up show – was a well attended event with exhibitors ranging from Business Gateway to Learn Direct to Enterprising Solutions and Glasgow City Council, alongside GSERA – all providing valuable advice to people thinking of setting up their own business.
There were a series of well attended workshops - attended by over 60 people - including:
Introduction to web design
Pre-start & young businesses selling
Meet the funders and
Marketing on a shoestring
Enterprising Women’s newly started up businesses also showcased their products ranging from tablet to bags to flowers and jewellery.
If you have an idea for a business start up, contact our business team at GSERA: startup@gsera.org.uk or 0800 027 2628
www.enterprising-women.org.uk
