GLASGOW—July 7, 2010

Keith Brown, Minister for Skills and Lifelong Learning yesterday (Tuesday 6 July) visited Europe’s largest assisted workshop based in Glasgow for a tour of the site and to meet with employees.

The visit to City Building (Glasgow) LLP managed Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBi) comes as the minister seeks to champion the development and implementation of policy initiatives and services in Scotland that support the participation of disabled persons and those with learning difficulties, in viable jobs and career opportunities.

With a workforce of more than 250 people, over half of which have a disability, RSBi is one of the most successful examples of the provision of supported employment and offers all employees with skills training, development and career progression which benefits both themselves and the local economy.

The Minister’s key priority is to encourage the take up of EU Directive Article 19, a Government policy which states that every public body should aim to have at least one contract with a supported factory or business and that they should maximise their use of reserved contracts.

To assist in this drive, the Scottish Procurement Directorate, working closely with the British Association for Supported Employment (BASE) of which RSBi is a member, has created a list of Scottish supported businesses and the services and goods they provide.
Keith Brown, MSP said: “I am delighted to be visiting a company that has a reputation for not only producing quality products but also for providing its staff with lasting career opportunities.

“We recognise the unique contribution made by supported businesses in providing real job opportunities for those with a significant level of disability.
“As such we need to ensure that opportunities presented by Article 19 of EU Procurement arrangements are fully utilised.”

Willie Docherty, managing director of City Building who joined the minister for the tour, said: “The Minister’s visit and support of businesses such as RSBi will go a long way in highlighting the top quality products that are being manufactured as well as demonstrate the fantastic skills of the workforce.

“It is essential to the future of assisted workshops that operate in the commercial world, that public - and private - sectors are aware of what we have to offer and utilise Article 19 for the benefit of all involved.
“I am delighted that the Minister has taken the time to visit and I look forward to seeing the results that can be achieved.”

The minister will be given a tour of RSBi and will have the opportunity to speak to members of staff about their jobs and future aspirations.

Media Enquiries
Please contact Mel Brookes, City Building’s Marketing Manager in the first instance on +44 (0)141 287 1956, +44 (0)7734 597296 or e-mail melanie.brookes@citybuildingglasgow.co.uk

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