Hand picked campaign

Hand Picked 100 has passed the half way point in its campaign to find employment for young people across Central Scotland.

Since the campaign launched earlier this year, 58 16-24-year-olds have found employment thanks to local business leaders who have supported the programme. The target is to find 100 employers willing to join Hand Picked and give young people paid jobs.

Established by CR Smith, Hand Picked is reportedly Scotland’s only employability programme of its kind run by private business.

It is managing director Gerard Eadie’s belief that helping young people understand what it means to be in work is the best possible careers boost employers can give.

The Hand Picked programme includes paid job placements and in-depth work academies that help nurture the skills and self-confidence that young people need to land a job.

“I would like to offer my gratitude to all the businesses which have come forward so far to assist young people who want a job,” Gerald said.

“We know that the opportunity to learn what is needed in a job, while actually experiencing paid employment, is a life-changer for those we have been able to assist.

“The Hand Picked programme has received the endorsement of former Prime Minister and Fife MP Gordon Brown, and has the backing of local schools, the third sector, employment agencies and the Scottish government. With more businesses on board, we can continue to build on the success achieved so far through both the ninety-day paid work placements and the academies.”

Hand Picked identifies and places young people into paid jobs and the employers that take them on become part of a highly visible business network with a mission.

There are Hand Picked events, PR support is provided, and each business will receive recognition and acknowledgement online, in local media, in government reports and through the use of the Hand Picked 100 campaign logo.