Galashiels Works!

Claudia James, from Galashiels, found herself at a loose end, unemployed and unsure of what to do next.

That was until she enrolled on a new back to work initiative, Galashiels Works, which helps young people between the ages of 16 and 24 overcome barriers on their journey into employment.

Claudia went on to secure a job at fast food restaurant McDonalds, where she is making new friends, and a place at college pursuing her dream - animal care.

Now aged 17, she has been named Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year, as well as Young Achiever of the Year (Galashiels), at a glittering awards ceremony, hosted by employment charity Tomorrow’s People, in Glasgow.

Claudia, who is looking forward to the final in London, said: “Galashiels Works! was the best 10 weeks of my life. I have ended up with a great job at McDonalds, where I am making new friends, and a place at college learning about animal care, which has always been my goal in life.” Works! is a ten-week programme running in Galashiels which helps unemployed young people in isolated, rural areas to get and keep a job.

Claudia added: “Galashiels Works! was an inspiring, supportive and positive environment and everybody there was kind and helped me to grow in confidence. They helped me with volunteering and were there to help sort out the issues in my life.” The charity also helped 21-year-old musician Glen Mcgillivray, from Hawick, who made a surprise appearance at the awards.

He had been unemployed and in and out of the criminal justice system for four years when he came to Tomorrow’s People. The employment charity provided Glen with support and stability through a turbulent time and he is now focused on a career in music - having performed at Stowed Out Festival - and is working to set up his own record label to concentrate on developing the Scottish rap industry.

Glen said: “Tomorrow’s People has been fantastic for me. I now have confidence in myself and am visible to the world.”