Clyde-Siders Get Work Project Boost

Young people who have volunteered at the Commonwealth Games will be able to access a work-training programme, Scotland's First Minister has said. Known as Clyde-siders, the helpers have fulfilled a variety of roles during Glasgow 2014, including in spectator services, transport and press operations. Now, an initiative designed to get 1,000 jobless young Scots into work will be open to youngsters who have been part of the 15,000-strong volunteer crew. Alex Salmond said they would be eligible to access the £2.4 million employability programme. The Clyde-siders have been one of the biggest successes of the Commonwealth Games and we should take the utmost pride in the part they have played,'' he said.They have taken to their roles with ease and have exemplified the wonderful, welcoming nature that Scotland is famed for - helping to make this the friendly Games. I've met hundreds of volunteers over the last eleven days and they have been the unsung heroes."Of course, most of the focus has been placed on the top-class athletes and the sporting spectacle of the Games, but the Clyde-siders have underpinned all of this.'' Mr Salmond added: The Clyde-siders were made up of people from all ages and backgrounds, and we want to make sure that they can build on the great experience they've had and continue their own development.By opening up the Scotland's Best programme to young Clyde-siders, we are offering these young people a terrific opportunity to gain vital skills, experience and qualifications that will better equip them for life in the workplace. This is a true Games legacy.'' The volunteering and training scheme is part of the £5 million Young Persons' Legacy Fund which was announced in 2012 and gives up to 2,500 young people the opportunity to gain employment and experience in the major events Scotland will host in years to come. Scotland's Best sees participants achieve a Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level 4 qualification to help them into work.