Almost 100 people who have battled drug or alcohol addictions received employability, training or personal development awards at a graduation ceremony in Glasgow this afternoon. (Thursday 23).
Elevate-Glasgow, which has helped more than 1600 people since April 2020, is a service which supports people who are in recovery by delivering a range of employment services, training and volunteering opportunities.
The organisation which has accompanied people to the DWP and housing appointments, held its ceremony at Glasgow City Chambers.
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Elevate can also help people update their CV, prepare for interviews and address the barriers that impact people in recovery, including mental health, homelessness, trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
Jonathan, who first engaged with Elevate in 2017, said: “When I found Elevate I was in quite a difficult predicament. I attended an open day event they were at and when the worker explained that Elevate offered courses and placements for people in recovery who were unemployed, I felt a great sense of relief.
“All I wanted to do was get back to work, but my time with Elevate offered me so much more than that. I was given an opportunity to study, gain qualifications and complete a paid work placement – all of which have taken me to where I am today.”
Martin Devine, senior employability advisor for adults and young People at Elevate, added: “In working with Elevate, I have witnessed individuals build their confidence and self-belief and begin to take their first steps in leaving services behind and becoming responsible members of their community and wider society.
“The graduation ceremony stands out for me for the simple reason, that in these moments you witness our participants recognising what they have achieved and the impact this has on their lives and the lives of their families.”
In their first awards ceremony since Covid-19, Elevate are delighted to be hosting the event for more than 90 award winners, and also to celebrate the amount of work that has taken place.
Since April 2020, Elevate has supported 1681 people with personal development, qualifications, starting employment and job retention support.
Jacqueline Kerr, chairwoman of Glasgow City Alcohol and Drug Partnership, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the success of our partner, Elevate Glasgow, at their award ceremony this week.
“Their programme is a great example of partnership working across the city to support individuals in their recovery journeys and to reach their goals.”
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