Employers back MP’s jobs drive

EDINBURGH West Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart says he is making progress on his Get Edinburgh Working campaign to find 100 job or training opportunities in 100 days.

The campaign, launched nearly two months ago, urged businesses across the Capital to help people back into work.

Today, Mr Crockart said: “The response from businesses has been amazing and we’ve identified a good number of training places, with many more conversations continuing between businesses and the Joined Up For Jobs team.

“Each of these places has the potential to be life-changing for the young person receiving it. I’m sure that the next few weeks will see the campaign secure many more of these 100 opportunities.”

Anna Louise Simpson, founder of Cramond-based Mama Teas, said: “Taking on an apprentice is like business karma; we give a young person a chance but get so much more in return. I would recommend that every business consider it.”

Graham Birnie, factory manager of Premier Hytemp at Newbridge, said: “We’ve committed to taking on two people through the Modern Apprenticeship with a local college and I would encourage as many companies as possible to get involved.”