Getting to work

Launch of new homelessness and employability network

Research has shown that employment is one of the solutions to homelessness. With this in mind, a new network is being launched today (Tuesday 15 th June) to highlight the ways in which education, training and employment can become part of the strategy to tackle homelessness in Scotland .

The development of the Network has been encouraged by the Scottish Executive and financially supported by Scottish Enterprise and Communities Scotland.

Communities Minister, Margaret Curran has sent a message of support for tomorrow’s launch:

"Preventing and tackling homelessness is a top priority for the Executive. Employment is a key route out of homelessness. That is why it is so important that homeless people are given the support they require to access employment – for their own personal growth but also for the creation of a vibrant and healthy economy. I am delighted that this network has been established – in order to bring together employers, voluntary sector agencies, local authorities and people who have experienced homelessness in order to widen access to employment and training opportunities – and would like to wish it every success. "

Employers are also supporting this initiative – the keynote speech will be delivered by Mark Brown of Marks and Spencer’s, and Liz McLeod of Standard Life will be leading a workshop. These employers recognise the economic and social importance of developing strategies for an inclusive labour market, and are working with other SHEN members to establish good practice in introducing vulnerable workers to the labour market.

The seminar takes place at Stirling University and will be the first of a series of events which will help to establish policy in the field and develop and exchange good practice between its members.

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Notes

· The Scottish Homelessness and Employability Network (SHEN) had been formed by a group of interested organisations including Communities Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Business in the Community, Scottish Council for Single Homeless, Scottish Foyer Network, Youthlink, Scottish Simon/Cyrenian Alliance, Scottish Adult Learners Partnership and Scottish Churches Housing Network. A Steering Group of interested members oversees Network activity.

· The network is hosted by Scottish Council for Single Homeless

· For further information contact Tom Roberts on 07940 594 646 or see www.shen-scotland.org