UNEMPLOYED in the Merkinch area can now receive extra help to find work thanks to a scheme newly announced by the Scottish Executive.
The Highlands & Islands Action Team for Jobs enables experienced advisers to focus on areas that have particular problems of labour market disadvantages.
The scheme is not a branch of the Jobcentre, but aims to support radical, innovative ways of getting jobless people into work and Merkinch is one of the areas to participate in the £500,000 programme.

The Action Team will have two experienced advisers in Merkinch – Neil Harris and Sandra Gibson (pictured below). They will be at the recently-opened drop-in centre at mp33 each weekday morning from 10am to 12.30pm.
Elaine Fraser, who is Project Manager of the Action Team explains: “We will offer support to all jobless clients aged 16 and over in the area covered by postcode IV3-8, whether they are in receipt of benefits or not.

“Our success will be determined by the way we utilise our resources. We will work to enhance existing provisions already available through Jobcentres or offer 'new' provision or assistance to meet the needs, both of jobseekers and employers.”

Key areas for development have already been identified and include:

• Assistance with transport costs/provision
• Funds to cover lying time
• Aftercare package – in-work support
• Short training packages to suit employer needs
• Childcare training and costs
• Training or wage subsidies.

“We have been delighted by the response and commitment from community groups, other agencies and employers. We look forward to working with them to ensure the success of the project,” said Elaine Fraser.
Anyone wanting further information can contact Neil Harris or Sandra Gibson on (01463) 717639.