People living in the Merkinch area will now have better access to IT training thanks to a contribution of £9,000 from Albyn Housing Society’s Wider Role Fund.

This fund, which is possible thanks to the Scottish Government, exists to address poverty and neighbourhood decline by supporting vulnerable individuals, families and disadvantaged communities. 

The donation will help Merkinch Training for the Unemployed – a project providing IT training to vulnerable and unemployed individuals in Inverness – purchase essential up-to-date computer equipment.  This scheme not only boosts personal confidence, but also gives participants a higher chance of securing a job through enhanced self-esteem.

Calum Macaulay, Chief Executive of Albyn said:  “We are delighted to help Merkinch Enterprise.  We have a high number of tenants in the Merkinch area and are committed to supporting them in training and employment.  This scheme enables participants to access solid IT skills and accreditations which lead to improved employment opportunities and better social skills.”

The project, which is also backed by Cairn Housing Association, is run by Merkinch Enterprise through a training project financed through the European Social Fund and supported by the Highland Council.  The Merkinch Enterprise team, which works to assist members of the local community, has been in operation since 1992.  It is the only locally based provider of this type of training.

Colin Downie, Chief Executive of Merkinch Enterprise said:  “Merkinch Enterprise has been providing this continuing, successful service since 1997.  The project is funded through the European Social Fund with matching finance from the Highland Council as well as our own resources.   When the IT equipment passes its useful life span we have to seek other financial support to ensure the training facility can continue at the highest level through an upgrade to the computer systems.  The Enterprise and of course the community are very grateful for this support, as without it we would not have been able to maintain the highest level of quality service that we continue to deliver to the community.”

Since the Merkinch Training programme began, training is available to an average of 32 unemployed individuals a year.  From this group, approximately ten move into employment, ten into higher education and 28 in total gain a Higher National Certificate Level in Information Technology Applications.