Job Success for Environmental Task Force Trainee

Eddie Farquhar was thrilled to land a trainee post with Glasgow's new Environmental Task Force after five months of unemployment.

The 22-year-old joined the council's Task Force in May as one of 75 trainees who were recruited to work alongside existing staff to help clean up the city while gaining valuable mentoring and work experience.

Eddie was on a 12 month placement with the aim of boosting his employability and self-belief. And his on-the-job training has already paid dividends. The Knightswood man has landed a permanent, full-time role with Wheatley Group.

Eddie said: "Being out of work was soul-destroying but the Environmental Task Force has helped me a lot. It has given me a real confidence boost and I have enjoyed meeting people and working outside. I'm sure it has helped me get my permanent job with Wheatley Group.

"Not having a job gets you down. It's taken a while, but now I'm where I want to be. I can start planning for the future - saving for a car and a house. I'm really happy."

Councillor Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of the Environmental Task Force, congratulated the 22-year-old on his good news.

He said: "I'm delighted for Eddie. His success shows how the Task Force is helping people who were unemployed gain experience and skills to secure permanent jobs. The Task Force is working hard to help clean up communities across the city. The rapid response teams are making a real impact and Eddie's story shows that this initiative is not only benefiting the city as a whole, but also producing positive results for individual residents. I wish Eddie all the best in his new job."