UNEMPLOYED people in Glasgow are being offered the chance to gain the skills and qualifications needed for a career in hospitality.

As one of Scotland’s leading employability schemes returns to the area this summer, the Diageo Learning for Life course offers participants six weeks of practical coaching and employability training.

Industry-certified qualifications on completion of the course are provided at the end.

Students also get the chance to gain on-the-job experience through an invaluable work placement with some of Glasgow’s leading hotels, bars and restaurants.

People out of work from across the city are being encouraged to sign up for the award-winning training programme which is open to over-18s currently receiving Job Seekers’ Allowance or Universal Credit.

Gillian Dalziel, programme manager at Diageo Learning for Life, said: “Scots are full of passion and drive and, when combined with their new qualifications and experience, our students have the best possible chance of securing long-term employment in the hospitality industry.

“The sector is thriving and there are excellent career paths for course graduates.

“Offering a solid platform for training and development, the Learning for Life course provides students with the opportunity to learn new skills, gain recognised qualifications and build confidence.”

Since its launch in 2014, more than 1,000 unemployed people have graduated from the programme, with 81% of graduates going on to further training or employment and 78% securing long-term employment – making it one of Scotland’s most successful training schemes.

The course is delivered by The Springboard Charity, Diageo’s specialist training partner.

The Learning for Life course in Glasgow begins on July 2. For more information, visit careerscope.uk.net/work/vacancies/256-diageo-learning-for-life, speak to your local Jobcentre Plus work coach, or contact Fiona Bingham on FionaB@springboarduk.org.uk.