Glasgow’s got talent

The employment campaign aimed at young people with learning difficulties is back, hosting its eighth roadshow in the city centre.

The initiative has visited Hampden, Giffnock and further afield before – and now job seekers with learning difficulties, or those on the autistic spectrum, are invited to the Scottish Youth Theatre on Wednesday (February 27).

At present, 84.5 per cent of those with learning disabilities are unemployed, compared with 7.6 per cent for the rest of Scottish society.

The free conference – organised by Glasgow city council supported employment service, Scottish Consortium for Learning Disability (SCLD), Values Into Action Scotland (VIAS) – provides advice on looking for employment, as well as handy interview and first-day tips.

A regular feature fashion show — during which successful service users model their work clothes — always proves a crowd pleaser and aims to inspire future job hunters.

Norma Curran, chief executive of the southside-based VIAS, 
told The Extra: “There are many young people who want to work. They just need some help and advice about finding and keeping a job.

“The conference will be a fun way of giving people the information that they want. Our events are inspirational, offer practical advice and help steer people through the maze of services.”

The conference will also be used to launch a new service – Diversity Works 4 U – which involves VIAS working with five Glasgow-based blue chip companies to encourage a more diverse workforce.

Maura Lynch, depute director of SCLD, added: “It is really important that people get the right help and support in their local areas.

“We need to make sure that everyone who wants to work has access to employment services that work for people with learning difficulties and individuals on the autistic spectrum.”

The event runs 9.30am until 3pm, and bookings are also welcome from employers, parents, education personnel, carers or anyone else involved in supporting young people.

To find out more, call Christine at SCLD on 559 5720, or email [email protected].