European funding injection for Moving On project

The Moving On employment project, which helps get people back into work, is to receive more than £200,000 of European funding, it was announced today.

It is one of 15 organisations in the Highlands and Islands to win a share of £5.3 million targeted at supporting those who are finding it hard to secure jobs.

Moving On sets up job crews to carry out short-term work projects throughout Shetland and reports a 75 per cent success rate in getting people who face a range of issues to gain employment.

The cash injection of £222,109 will help it to maintain its support for up to 100 people.

Welcoming the funding, infrastructure and capital investment minister Alex Neil said: “As always, we are focusing on supporting jobs and boosting the economy. This money will make a real difference across the Highlands and Islands – getting people back into work and helping revitalise local communities.

“This round of funding is testament to the high standard of projects and programmes in the Highlands and Islands dedicated to driving economic growth. The diversity of the projects receiving grant reflects the variety of innovative and creative industries synonymous with the Highlands and Islands.

“In the face of increasingly tough competition to attract European funding, this represents a welcome addition, providing stability for some programmes and a new footing for others.

”Each project in its own way will contribute to developing a skilled workforce adding economic value and much needed jobs in the Highlands & Islands, as well as contributing to the Scottish economy as a whole.”