YOUNG job-seekers were given VIP treatment at the SSE Hydro.

The group of 10 from the social care charity Quarriers were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the 12,500-capacity arena.

It was access all areas for the Quarriers goup. The Bridge of Weir-based charity helps vulnerable young people, those with disabilities, the homeless and families with practical help and advice during difficult times.

The day out was part of Quarriers Learning Development Initiative, which helps young people develop their numeracy and literacy skills so they can prepare and improve their prospects for finding work or accessing further education.

The tour took the group round the Hydro, giving them access to the executive boxes, green room, backstage area and the restaurant, where a buffet lunch was provided.

An employability workshop was held afterwards, which featured an informal Q&A session with Hydro staff and employers.

Heather Weir, project manager at Quarriers, said: "This gives our service users the chance to hear from employers what they are looking for in an employee.

"It shows them the opportunities available and helps with their confidence in pursuing those opportunities."

Heather set up the scheme eight years ago with the aim that it would help disadvantaged people find employment.

She said: "I want to be able to give them the skills and confidence so that they are capable of improving their lives."

Caz Dunlop came into contact with the Quarriers' James Shields project in 2010 after she became homeless.

The 28-year-old, who has benefited from the learning project and is now a mentor for younger people, said: "My literacy and numeracy has definitely improved a lot.

"When I look back at work I did in 2010 and compare it to now, I can't believe how far I've come.

"Quarriers have helped me so much and the relationships I have with everyone here is amazing."

The £10,000 funding for the Quarriers Learning Development Initiative came from Clydesdale Bank's community awards grant scheme.

The community affairs manager for the bank, Irene Swankie, has worked closely with Heather Weir to try and develop the best possible steps for service users of Quarriers.

Fiona Crichton, Head of Partnerships at the SSE Hydro, said: "The economic impact of this venue for live entertainment is impressive.

"As an official partner of The SSE Hydro, Clydesdale Bank are supporting a venue which is generating real economic and employment benefits."

tony.connelly@eveningtimes.co.uk