College courses for parents offer sustainable route out of poverty – Somerville

New college courses for parents could help families access a “sustainable route” out of poverty, the Scottish Government has said.

Up to 2,400 parents will be able to access training at colleges across Scotland to enter or progress in work as part of the Scottish Government’s plans to eradicate child poverty.

The courses are funded through £10 million being invested in the college sector through the Raising Income through Skills and Education (Rise) initiative.

It aims to help families at the greatest risk of poverty to access the skills and education they need to enter and sustain work.

Social justice secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville visited Fife College on Thursday to meet parents who are benefiting from the scheme.

She said the courses could lead to helping families access a “sustainable route” out of poverty.

She said: “This is a prime example of how we are helping parents to boost their incomes through work, as well as through vital cost-of-living saving measures.

“We know that paid employment offers a sustainable route out of poverty for many families and I am pleased that colleges across Scotland are utilising our funding to work with parents to enhance their career options.

“This is part of wider activity, which also includes capping bus fares, investing to deliver a national breakfast club offer, and the game-changing Scottish Child Payment.”

Alongside training courses, the project will provide additional support with childcare and transport costs.

Colleges Rise is one part of a £22 million package to help parents upskill to enter or progress in work.

This includes £10 million for the new Flexible Workforce Development Fund, £10 million for the Colleges Rise Programme, and £2 million for the new Training Access Fund.

Gavin Donoghue, chief executive at Colleges Scotland, said: “Colleges play a critical role in tackling poverty at source and creating opportunity in every part of Scotland.

“On a daily basis, our colleges help learners gain the confidence and skills they need to overcome educational barriers and get into well-paid jobs that increase their incomes and improve their lives.

“Colleges are a key part of Scotland’s anti-poverty infrastructure, helping to break down barriers, widen access and support Scotland’s ambition of becoming a fairer and more inclusive society.

“Challenge Poverty Week provides an important opportunity to recognise the difference colleges make and to renew our collective commitment to addressing poverty and inequality.”