Agenda Document Pack - Economy and Regeneration Policy Board - 25/08/2026
Renfrewshire Council · 25 August 2026
Back to Economy and Regeneration Policy Board — 25 August 2026 and its agenda
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17/08/2026 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Economy and Regeneration Policy Board Date Time Venue Tuesday, 25 August 2026 10:00 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN Membership Councillor Andy Steel (Convener): Councillor John McNaughtan (Depute Convener): Councillor Alison Ann-Dowling: Councillor Stephen Burns: Councillor Graeme Clark: Councillor Andy Doig: Councillor Neill Graham: Councillor Robert Innes: Councillor Bruce MacFarlane: Councillor Janis McDonald: Councillor Marie McGurk: Councillor Iain McMillan: Councillor Sam Mullin: Councillor Iain Nicolson: Councillor Jim Paterson: Members of the Press and Public Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting. Further Information This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Hybrid Meeting Please note that this meeting is scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers. However, it is a hybrid meeting and arrangements have been made for members to join the meeting remotely should they wish. MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance Page 1 of 72
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17/08/2026 Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home Page 2 of 72
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17/08/2026 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1 Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/27 as at 19 June 2026 Report by Chief Executive and Director of Finance and Resources. 5 - 14 2 Business Gateway Renfrewshire 2025/26 Overview Report by Chief Executive. 15 - 22 3 Renfrewshire Employment Trends and “Get Britain Working” Opportunities Report by Chief Executive. 23 - 28 4 Employability Services End of Year Report 2025/26 Report by Chief Executive. 29 - 44 5 NOLB Grant Extension: Parental Travel Initiative Report by Chief Executive. 45 - 50 6 Renfrewshire Legacy Business Recognition Report by Chief Executive. 51 - 56 7 Regeneration Update 2026 Report by Chief Executive. 57 - 68 8 DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire Update Report by Chief Executive. 69 - 72 Page 3 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive and Director of Finance and Resources ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/27 as at 19 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 At the close of reporting Period 3 on 19 June 2026, the projected revenue outturn at 31 March 2027 for those services reporting to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board was an underspend position of £0.102m (2.3%) against the revised budget for the year. 1.2 The projected capital outturn at 31 March 2027 for projects reporting to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board is a break even position. 1.3 This is summarised in the table below and further analysis is provided in the report and appendices. Revised Annual Budget £000 Projected Outturn £000 Budget Variance (Adv)/Fav £000 Budget Variance % Revenue Economy and Development 4,514 4,412 102 2.3% Capital Economy and Development 8,605 8,605 0 0.0% 2. Recommendations 2.1 Members are requested to: a) Note the projected Revenue outturn underspend position of £0.102m; b) Note the projected Capital outturn break-even position; and c) Note the budget adjustments detailed at section 6. Item 1 EAR250826 Page 5 of 72
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PUBLIC 3. Revenue Budget Projection – underspend of £0.102m by 31 March 2027 3.1 The tables in Appendix 1 present the projected year-end position for all services reporting to this board, by both subjective analysis (what the budget is spent on) and objective analysis (which division is spending the budget). Significant variances affecting the projected position are analysed further below. 3.2 It should be noted that the projected outturn position reported here is based on the latest information available, which is subject to change during the financial year. The impact of any change on this projection will be updated at each board cycle until the close of reporting Period 10. 4. Objective Analysis – Significant Variances 4.1 Regeneration - £0.102m underspend This forecast underspend position is mainly attributable to an underspend in employee costs, as detailed below. 5. Subjective Analysis – Significant Variances 5.1 Employees - £0.103m underspend by 31 March 2027 The underspend is mainly attributable to staff vacancies and staff on parenting leave. Recruitment remains ongoing to ensure teams can operate at full capacity. 6. Revenue Budget Virements 6.1. Under the Council’s financial regulations, Directors and their nominated officers, in consultation with the Director of Finance and Resources, have certain delegated authority to transfer sums between subjective budget headings within a service division to enable budget management throughout the financial year. This is known as ‘budget virement’. 6.2. Transfers between divisions of the same service / department in excess of £100,000, and transfers between services / departments must be authorised by the respective service Director/Chief Executive and the Director of Finance and Resources for submission to the relevant policy board for approval. Future reports may therefore ask the board to approve budget adjustments that are deemed necessary for good budget management. 6.3. Budget adjustments for noting only, processed since the approval of the Revenue Estimates, amount to £1.542m and relate to the Invest in Renfrewshire (Employability) programme (see paragraph 6.4 and 6.5). EAR250826 Page 6 of 72
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PUBLIC 6.4. Funding awarded to the Council for financial year 2026/27 from the Scottish Government Employability Grant and the Community Led Local Development Fund was reported to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board on 26 May 2026 with the UK Local Growth Fund reported on 17 March 2026. A virement has been processed to reflect the realignment of budgets required to deliver the programme. 6.5. At its meeting of 17 March 2026, the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board was asked to agree the use of additional funding from the Invest in Renfrewshire (Employability) ringfenced reserve to deliver the 2026/27 programme, following the reduction in the level of funding allocation from the UK Local Growth Fund compared to the previous UK Shared Prosperity Fund. A drawdown has been processed to reflect the realignment of budgets. Revenue Budget Adjustments Objective Heading Subjective Heading Amount (£m) Reason Economy and Development Employees 3.680 Temporary realignment of costs funded by external income streams (para 6.3) Project Costs* 1.419 Income (3.557) Drawdown from Reserves 1.542 Drawdown from the Employability Ring- fenced Reserve (para 6.4) * Project costs can include supplies and services contracts, or payments to external bodies 7. Capital Budget Projection – break even position by 31 March 2026 7.1 The approved Capital Investment Programme 2026/27 to 2035/36 for Economy and Regeneration was £7.382m. The revised capital spend for 2026/27 is £8.605m. 7.2 The in-year Capital budget is forecast to break even by 31 March 2027 after a number of budget adjustments between years have taken place, to reflect revised programming of some capital projects. Details of these adjustments, which amount to £1.223m, are as follows: Project Amount (£m) Budget decelerated to 2027/28 - updated cashflows Town Centre Regeneration (1.000) Castle Semple Visitor Centre Improvements (0.040) EAR250826 Page 7 of 72
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PUBLIC Budget brought forward into 2026/27 - updated cashflows Paisley Museum 0.059 Cultural Infrastructure Programme 0.976 Town Centre Capital Fund 0.105 Place Based Investment Programme 0.413 Place Based Investment Programme (2025/26 grant award received lower than expected) (0.157) Town Centre Regeneration 0.094 Retail Improvement Scheme 0.075 Shared Prosperity Fund 0.148 Oakshaw Public Realm Works 0.071 Ferguslie Belltrees 0.610 Newton Road Playing Field 0.050 Castle Semple Visitor Centre Improvements 0.119 Budget reallocation in 2026/27 Cultural Infrastructure Programme to Public Realm – Abbey Quarter ILE Policy Board (0.350) Retail Improvement Scheme 0.050 Total 1.223 7.3 At its meeting of 14 May 2026, Council approved proposed changes to the Capital Programme including the allocation of £0.300m to Public Realm – Abbey Quarter and £0.050m to the Retail Improvement Scheme from balances remaining in the Cultural Infrastructure Programme (Ferguslie Sports Pavillion (£0.124m) and Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub (£0.226m). The remaining balance will be held in the programme for any residual works required in the initial opening years of the refurbished facilities - Paisley Town Hall, Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub, Ferguslie Sports Pavillion, St James Playing Fields and On-X Hockey Pitch. Implications of the Report 1. Financial The projected budget outturn position for Finance, Resources and Customer Services’ Revenue budget is an underspend of £0.102m (6.8%) at 31 March 2027. Income and expenditure will continue to be monitored closely for the rest of the financial year and as far as possible, steps will be taken to mitigate any overspend. EAR250826 Page 8 of 72
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PUBLIC The projected outturn position for the Economy and Regeneration Capital budget is break-even, after the adjustments outlined at section 7. 2. HR & Organisational Development While staffing budgets form a significant proportion of the Council’s revenue budgets, there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 3. Community/Council Planning Community Plan Our Renfrewshire is thriving The Council’s revenue and capital spend ensures that its facilities are fit for purpose and safe for the community, to maximise accessibility. Our Renfrewshire is well Our Renfrewshire is fair Our Renfrewshire is safe Council Plan Reshaping our place, our economy and our future The Council’s revenue and capital spend ensures that its facilities are fit for purpose and safe for the community, to maximise accessibility. Building strong, safe and resilient communities Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all Creating a sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy Ongoing revenue and capital budget monitoring is a tool to enable good financial management so that the Council has resources now and in the future for continued service delivery. Working together to improve outcomes 4. Legal There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 5. Property/Assets The capital expenditure noted in this report will result in improvements to Culture and Heritage assets and delivery of strategic place-shaping and regeneration. 6. Information Technology There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. EAR250826 Page 9 of 72
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PUBLIC 7. Equality & Human Rights While new areas of spend may impact on particular groups, any such impact would be assessed prior to the spend being incurred, therefore there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 8. Health & Safety There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 9. Procurement While Procurement is an important consideration prior to the Council incurring any revenue or capital spend, there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 10. Risk The potential financial risk that the Council will overspend its approved revenue budgets for the year is managed at a Council-wide level by the Chief Executive and Directors. 11. Privacy Impact There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 12. Cosla Policy Position N/a 13. Climate Change The Council aims to reduce its carbon and other emissions to net zero by 2030, however there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 14. Children’s Rights There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. EAR250826 Page 10 of 72
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PUBLIC List of Background Papers • Revenue Budget and Council Tax 2026/27, Council 26 February 2026 • Non-Housing Capital Investment Programme, Prudential Framework and Treasury Management Strategy, and Capital Strategy 2026/27 - 2035/36, Council 26 February 2026 Author: Valerie Howie, Finance Business Partner; and Linsey McGregor, Capital Accountant. EAR250826 Page 11 of 72
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PUBLIC Appendix 1 RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2026/27 1 April 2026 to 19 June 2026 POLICY BOARD: ECONOMY AND REGENERATION Objective Summary Approved Annual Budget Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 3 Projected Outturn Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % Economy and Regeneration Management 173 0 173 173 0 0.0% Economic Development 1,309 1,542 2,851 2,851 0 0.0% Regeneration 1,490 0 1,490 1,388 102 6.8% NET EXPENDITURE 2,972 1,542 4,514 4,412 102 2.3% Subjective Summary Approved Annual Budget Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 3 Projected Outturn Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % Employees 2,272 3,682 5,954 5,851 103 1.7% Premises Related 22 (14) 8 8 0 0.0% Transport Related 3 0 3 3 0 0.0% Supplies and Services 54 124 178 178 0 0.0% Third Party Payments 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% Transfer Payments 611 1,307 1,918 1,919 (1) (0.1%) Support Services 26 0 26 26 0 0.0% Depreciation and Impairment Losses 120 0 120 120 0 0.0% GROSS EXPENDITURE 3,108 5,099 8,207 8,105 102 1.2% Income (136) (3,557) (3,693) (3,693) 0 0.0% NET EXPENDITURE 2,972 1,542 4,514 4,412 102 2.3% EAR250826 Page 12 of 72
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PUBLIC Appendix 2 Prior Years Approved Budget Revised Projected Expenditure Budget Adjustments Budget Outturn Total Approved Projected Project Title to 31/03/2026 2026-27 since previous 2026-27 2026-27 Budget Outurn Board report to 31-Mar-31 to 31-Mar-31 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 ECONOMY & DEVELOPMENT Paisley Museum 64,223 4,359 59 4,418 4,418 0 0% 68,641 68,641 0 0% Cultural Infrastructure Programme 0 0 626 626 626 0 0% 626 626 0 0% Town Centre Capital Fund 255 0 105 105 105 0 0% 360 360 0 0% Place Based Investment Programme 2,843 723 256 979 979 0 0% 3,822 3,822 0 0% Total Town Centre Regeneration 206 2,300 (906) 1,394 1,394 0 0% 2,600 2,600 0 0% Retail Improvement Scheme 45 0 125 125 125 0 0% 170 170 0 0% Shared Prosperity Fund 1,372 0 148 148 148 0 0% 1,520 1,520 0 0% Oakshaw Public Realm Works 9 0 71 71 71 0 0% 80 80 0 0% Ferguslie Belltrees 40 0 610 610 610 0 0% 650 650 0 0% Newton Road Playing Field 59 0 50 50 50 0 0% 109 109 0 0% Castle Semple Visitor Centre Improvements 121 0 79 79 79 0 0% 240 240 0 0% Total Economy & Development 69,173 7,382 1,223 8,605 8,605 0 0% 78,818 78,818 0 0% TOTAL ECONOMY & DEVELOPMENT 69,173 7,382 1,223 8,605 8,605 0 0% 78,818 78,818 0 0% *Rolling programmes have a prior year year expenditure of £0 as the expenditure is not directly linked from one year to the next as a singular project. RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL CAPITAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY - NON-HOUSING SERVICES 1st April to 19th June 2026 POLICY BOARD: ECONOMY & REGENERATION Current Year 2026-27 Full Programme - All years Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable EAR250826 Page 13 of 72
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PUBLIC To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25August 2026 Report by: Chief Executive Heading: Business Gateway Renfrewshire 2025/26 Overview 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides an update on the performance and activities of Renfrewshire Council’s Business Gateway Service during 2025/26, and its contribution to supporting entrepreneurship, business growth and inclusive economic development across Renfrewshire. 1.2 The service continued to contribute to Renfrewshire Council's ambitions for economic growth and community wealth building by supporting residents and businesses to start, sustain and grow their enterprises. 1.3 Overall performance demonstrates strong demand for business support services and a healthy pipeline of entrepreneurial activity across Renfrewshire. 2. Recommendations 2.1 Board members are asked to: (i) Note the content of the report on Business Gateway Renfrewshire’s performance in 2025/26. 3. Background 3.1 Business Gateway is Scotland's national business support service, funded by the Scottish Government and delivered locally by Renfrewshire Council as part of the Council's Economic Development Service. The service provides free and impartial advice, information and support to individuals considering self- employment, business start-up and existing businesses seeking to develop and grow. Item 2 EAR250826 Page 15 of 72
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PUBLIC 3.2 As part of Renfrewshire Council's wider economic development offer, Business Gateway plays an important role in supporting entrepreneurship, business sustainability and business growth. The service contributes directly to the Council's ambitions to grow the local economy, create employment opportunities and support community wealth building through increased levels of business ownership and economic participation. 3.3 Core services delivered through Business Gateway include: • One-to-One Business Advice – Tailored advice and practical support provided by business advisers to individuals considering self- employment, start-up businesses and existing companies. • Business Enquiry Service – Advice, guidance and signposting support delivered through telephone, online and face-to-face channels. • Workshops and Webinars – Delivery of a programme of workshops and online learning covering topics including business planning, marketing, finance, digital development and business growth. • Digital Resources – Access to online guidance, self-help tools and specialist resources through the national Business Gateway website. • Referral and Specialist Support – Access to sector specialists providing support in areas including innovation, exporting, funding, net zero and workforce development. • 4. 2025/26 Business Gateway Renfrewshire Performance 4.1 The Business Gateway Service delivered a strong level of activity throughout 2025/26. Key achievements include: • 388 Planning to Start completions • 328 business started • 494 startup employees forecasted • 51 Strengthen Your Business Completions • 26 businesses entering Local Priority and Business Growth categories • 259 jobs supported through businesses entering Local Priority and Business Growth categories 4.2 “Planning to Start” completions represent individuals actively progressing towards self-employment and business ownership. The volume achieved during the year demonstrates continued demand for enterprise support and reflects the important role that Business Gateway plays in helping residents transition into business ownership EAR250826 Page 16 of 72
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PUBLIC 4.3 The service delivered 51 “Strengthen Your Business“ completions, highlighting the continued engagement with existing businesses seeking to address challenges, identify growth opportunities and access wider support networks 4.4 The combination of start-up and growth support activity demonstrates that the service is supporting businesses at every stage of development and contributing to a stronger local business base. 4.5 The number of Business Gateway Start-Ups per 10,000 population is a key indicator of economic growth and is measured as part of the Local Government Benchmarking Framework. Renfrewshire is ranked 10th out of 32 for the 2025- 26 figures with 17.3 business start ups (per 10,000 population) against the Scottish average of 13.1. 5. Enquiries Received 5.1 Business enquiries represent the front door to the Business Gateway service and are often the first point of contact for new start-ups and growing businesses. 5.2 During 2025/26: • 260 local enquiries received • 93 enquiries passed from ERFS (Enquiry Fulfilment Research Service) • 601 website enquiries • 491,731 website users (the total number of people who have visited the Business Gateway site) • 977 local support page users (total number of people who have visited Business Gateway Renfrewshire landing page) 5.3 The volume of website users demonstrates the extensive reach of the Business Gateway service and illustrates the importance of digital channels in connecting businesses and entrepreneurs with support and information. 6. Inclusive Growth Performance 6.1 Supporting inclusive economic growth remains a key priority and is a central component of Business Gateway Renfrewshire’s service delivery. During 2025/26: • 51% of businesses started were female led • 33% of businesses were started by entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds • 23% of startups were led by a young person • 8% of businesses started were led by someone from a minority ethnic background EAR250826 Page 17 of 72
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PUBLIC • 7% of entrepreneurs have a disability 6.2 These outcomes demonstrate the service's success in engaging with entrepreneurs from all backgrounds and demonstrate the service's contribution to tackling economic inequality and supporting residents who may otherwise experience barriers to entrepreneurship and enterprise development. 7. Conclusion 7.1 The 2025/26 Business Gateway Renfrewshire performance demonstrates that the service continues to deliver significant economic and social value for Renfrewshire. 7.2 The service has maintained strong levels of entrepreneurial activity, supported local businesses and delivered positive outcomes for under-represented groups. 7.3 Particularly noteworthy is the strong participation from female-led enterprises (51%), disadvantaged entrepreneurs (33%) and young entrepreneurs (23%), demonstrating the service's contribution to inclusive growth and ensuring that opportunities for business ownership and economic participation are available to all communities across Renfrewshire. These participation rates compare favourably with the national Business Gateway figures, where female-led start- ups account for (50%) of clients, disadvantaged entrepreneurs (18%), and young entrepreneurs (13%), highlighting the service's particularly strong reach among under-represented groups. 7.4 Collectively, these outcomes support Renfrewshire Council's ambitions for economic development, community wealth building and a fairer, more inclusive local economy. 7.5 The Business Gateway Renfrewshire performance stats are included in Appendix 1 of this report. Implications of the Report 1. Financial - No additional finance sought. 2. HR & Organisational Development - None 3. Community/Council Planning • Jobs and the Economy – progresses the business development and growth agenda. 4. Legal - None 5. Property/Assets - None 6. Information Technology – None EAR250826 Page 18 of 72
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PUBLIC 7. Equality & Human Rights- The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. 8. Health & Safety - None. 9. Procurement - None. 10. Risk - None. 11. Privacy Impact - None. 12. Childrens Rights - None 13. Cosla Policy Position - Not Applicable. 14. Climate Risk - Not Applicable. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Colette Saez, Assistant Economic Development Manager Email: colette.saez@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 19 of 72
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PUBLIC Appendix 1 EAR250826 Page 21 of 72
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PUBLIC EAR250826 Page 22 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Renfrewshire Employment Trends and “Get Britain Working” Opportunities ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides an overview of employment and unemployment trends over the past few years and highlights issues for Renfrewshire. 1.2 It also identifies new programmes of support to potentially help mitigate some of the issues. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Note the data and information relating to the current employment trends in Renfrewshire; (ii) Agree to the Council pursuing all relevant and appropriate funding opportunities to support greater employment participation in the area. (iii) Note the intention to bring the issue of reducing employment levels and long term health to a future Board. _________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Recent NOMIS data indicates a significant deterioration in labour market participation within Renfrewshire. Item 3 EAR250826 Page 23 of 72
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PUBLIC 3.2 Whilst unemployment has increased only modestly, the employment rate has fallen from 76.3% in 2024 to 69.1% in the latest available estimate (March 2026), representing a reduction of more than 8,000 residents in employment. 3.3 Over the same period, economic inactivity has increased by approximately 6,800 people (to almost 32,000 people at March 2026), with inactivity due to long-term sickness increasing by around 5,000. 3.4 The evidence therefore suggests that the principal labour market challenge is no longer unemployment alone but a substantial withdrawal from the labour market, increasingly associated with health-related barriers to work. 3.5 This trend presents risks to economic growth, labour supply, household incomes and demand for public services, and strengthens the case for interventions focused on labour market participation, health and employability support alongside youth employment initiatives. ___________________________________________________________________ 4. Renfrewshire Labour Market Trends 4.1 Statistical releases by ONS vary in timescale across categories. They can also vary in accuracy as, for some reporting, the sample sizes used are fairly small. However, recent reports are consistently showing a worrying situation in Renfrewshire which is worth highlighting to the Board. Renfrewshire Labour Market Trends (NOMIS APS) Year Total Population Population 16-64 Employed Employment Rate Unemployed Unemployment Rate Economically Inactive Inactivity Rate Long- Term Sick Inactive % of Inactive 2021 182,330 117,400 *86,900 75.1% 3,100 3.5% 24,400 21.8% 10,300 42.1% 2022 184,370 118,500 *83,900 71.3% 3,200 3.6% 29,400 25.9% 13,500 46.1% 2023 187,150 119,800 89,100 76.8% 2,800 3.0% 25,100 22.4% 8,700 34.6% 2024 189,170 120,700 90,600 76.3% 3,300 3.5% 25,100 22.0% 7,600 30.3% 2025 189,270 122,744 84,100 71.8% 3,500 4.0% 28,600 25.3% 10,200 35.5% Mar 2026 n/a n/a 82,500 69.1% 3,600 4.1% 31,900 28.0% 12,600 39.6% * 2021 and 2022 employment and unemployment were impacted by COVID. 2023 figures were back at pre-covid levels. Population figures for 2025 are not yet published. 4.2 Renfrewshire’s population is growing. However, the figures above show that there are approximately 8,100 fewer residents in employment in March 2026 compared to 2024, yet unemployment has increased by only around 300 people. At the same time: • economic inactivity has increased by 6,800 people; • long-term sickness inactivity has increased by 5,000 people. • The number of jobs based in Renfrewshire has stayed about the same (very slight increase). EAR250826 Page 24 of 72
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PUBLIC 4.3 This suggests that the overwhelming majority of the deterioration in labour market performance is being driven by people leaving the labour market altogether rather than becoming unemployed. 4.4 Normally, if employment falls by nearly 10 percentage points, it is expected that unemployment would rise sharply, claimant counts would increase substantially, visible pressure on Jobcentre Plus and employability services would be anticipated. But that is not what appears to have happened in Renfrewshire. This strongly suggests that health-related barriers are now a major determinant of labour market participation in Renfrewshire (much more than previously). 4.5 The figures in the tables below show that Renfrewshire’s Claimant Count (those registered as actively looking for work) are lower than both the Scottish and UK levels. 4.6 Renfrewshire’s youth claimants (aged 18-24), however, are higher than adult levels and are higher than the Scottish level (but lower than UK levels). Claimant count by sex - not seasonally adjusted (June 2026) Renfrewshire (numbers) Renfrewshire (%) Scotland (%) Great Britain (%) All people 3,470 2.9 3.1 3.9 Males 2,095 3.6 3.8 4.5 Females 1,370 2.2 2.5 3.4 Source: ONS Claimant count by sex and age Note: % is the number of claimants as a proportion of resident population of area aged 16-64 and gender Claimant count by age - not seasonally adjusted (June 2026) Renfrewshire (level) Renfrewshire (%) Scotland (%) Great Britain (%) Aged 16+ 3,470 2.9 3.1 3.9 Aged 16 to 17 20 0.5 0.7 0.2 Aged 18 to 24 695 4.9 4.5 5.7 Aged 18 to 21 445 5.7 5.0 6.0 Aged 25 to 49 2,015 3.2 3.6 4.3 Aged 50+ 740 1.8 2.0 2.9 Source: ONS Claimant count by sex and age Note: % is number of claimants as a proportion of resident population of the same age EAR250826 Page 25 of 72
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PUBLIC 4.7 Renfrewshire's labour market data indicates a participation crisis. It is suggested that the Council should position itself to influence and attract future investment aimed at preventing economic inactivity, supporting health-related return to work, and improving pathways into employment. There should also be a particular focus on young people. _________________________________________________________ 5. “Get Britain Working” Agenda 5.1 The UK Government's Get Britain Working agenda provides a strategic framework focused on increasing labour market participation, tackling economic inactivity and supporting people with health-related barriers to employment. 5.2 While some specific initiatives within the programme, including certain Trailblazer activity, are focused on England, the policy direction aligns strongly with challenges emerging in Renfrewshire. The Council can use this agenda to strengthen alignment between existing Scottish and local government funded employability provision, local health and wellbeing priorities and emerging UK Government employment support opportunities. 5.3 Given Renfrewshire's significant reduction in employment rates and corresponding increase in economic inactivity, particularly linked to long-term health conditions, there is a strong strategic case for ensuring future employability investment is targeted not only at unemployment but also at preventing labour market exit and supporting pathways back into work. 5.4 A number of new investment programmes are therefore being investigated to support Renfrewshire’s current position: 5.5 The Youth Jobs Guarantee is designed to provide eligible young people who have experienced extended periods of unemployment (currently 18 months) with access to paid employment and tailored in-work support. The programme will: • create funded employment opportunities lasting up to six months; • support young people aged 18–24 who have been unemployed for an extended period; • provide personalised employment support before and during work; • help participants progress into sustained employment beyond the funded placement. Delivery will be coordinated through DWP-appointed Delivery Partners working closely with employers and local stakeholders. 5.6 The Youth Jobs Grant provides employers with a financial contribution of £3,000 towards the costs of recruiting eligible young people. The grant aims to: • encourage employers to create additional job opportunities; • reduce the financial risks associated with recruitment; • increase youth employment across a range of sectors; EAR250826 Page 26 of 72
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PUBLIC • support businesses experiencing recruitment challenges. The funding is available to eligible employers recruiting young people who meet the programme criteria. 5.7 The Pathways to Work Innovation Fund is a ‘call to action’ for the private, voluntary and public sectors to come forward with the most ambitious, creative ideas to help disabled people and those with health conditions get into and on at work. The Fund will open for bids in September 2026, with organisations across the UK invited to compete for funding to test genuinely new approaches to employment support. Fund guidance and the terms and conditions of grant are expected in the next few weeks. _________________________________________________________ 6. Conclusion 6.1 Given recent local data showing declining employment rates alongside rising economic inactivity, particularly among those reporting long-term health conditions, it is proposed to prepare a scrutiny report to further identify potential actions to reverse the trend. 6.2 It is also proposed to examine all new opportunities available through the Get Britain Working approach and to make applications as appropriate for Renfrewshire. 6.3 Further reports on progress will be brought back to Board at a later date. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – no immediate impact but the report provides information on employability funding opportunities to be explored for Renfrewshire. 2. HR & Organisational Development –none. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – the report identifies some worrying trends for Renfrewshire and potential programmes to support new investment. • Reshaping our place, our economy and our future – employability plays a major role in the local economy, supporting people to get into work. • Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all – new funding opportunities will support young people and those with long term health conditions. • Working together to improve outcomes – the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership is an excellent example of joint working amongst local partners with the aim of improving outcomes and opportunities. 4. Legal – none. EAR250826 Page 27 of 72
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PUBLIC 5. Property/Assets – none. 6. Information Technology – none. 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – none. 9. Procurement – none. 10. Risk – none. 11. Privacy Impact – none. 12. Children’s Rights – none. 13. Cosla Policy Position – not applicable. 14. Climate Risk – not applicable. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers – None. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager, ruth.cooper@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 28 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Employability Services End of Year Report 2025-26 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Employability is a key element of the Council’s economic development service, Invest in Renfrewshire, and the team work closely with other members of the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership (LEP) to support people in the area to prepare for, and secure, work. 1.2 Employability has been a key priority for Renfrewshire Council for many years. Securing employment changes lives, creates opportunity and can lift people from poverty. Many individuals face significant challenges and barriers to obtaining and sustaining work and there is a strong demand for employability support. 1.3 This report provides the Board with an end of year report and general update on the delivery of Renfrewshire Council employability services, including: • An overview of 2025-26 delivery, client breakdown and performance. • Plans for September 2026, Renfrewshire Employability Month. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Note the end of year report for the performance and delivery of employability services in 2025-26 including 100% grant claims across both UK and Scottish Government funding allocations. (ii) Note the plans for Employability Month in Renfrewshire for September 2026. Item 4 EAR250826 Page 29 of 72
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PUBLIC _________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Employability is central to achieving the shared ambitions of both the Scottish Government and local authorities to reduce poverty, advance social inclusion, promote equality, and support sustainable economic growth. It is a key pillar of the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET), helping to create a stronger economy where thriving businesses and access to fair, secure and well-paid employment contribute to reducing poverty levels, particularly child poverty. 3.2 Through the No One Left Behind approach, employability services are designed and delivered through strong local partnerships. Scottish Government, local authorities, and organisations from the public, private and third sectors work collaboratively to understand local challenges and develop services that respond to the needs of both individuals and employers. Local Employability Partnerships (LEPs) operate in every local authority area, providing strategic leadership to shape provision around local labour market demands and community priorities. 3.3 Renfrewshire’s LEP has been operating for more than 15 years and is widely regarded as an example of effective place-based partnership working. Its success has been built on strong collaborative relationships, shared accountability, transparent governance, and the effective use of evidence and data to inform decision-making. This approach has enabled partners to deliver high-quality employability support, particularly for individuals facing significant barriers to employment and those furthest from the labour market. 3.4 Employability funding from the Scottish Government is allocated to the local authority, which acts as the accountable body on behalf of the partnership. Decisions on priorities and investment are made collectively through the LEP to ensure resources are aligned to local needs. In Renfrewshire, the LEP meets regularly as the strategic decision- making forum and is supported by six themed sub-groups and a practitioner network comprising more than 30 delivery organisations. _________________________________________________________ 4. End of Year Finance Report: 2025-26 Delivery of Employability Services 4.1 An overview of the planned Employability Services budget and activity for 2025-26 was brought to the Economy and Regeneration Policy Board in both May and August 2025. 4.2 External funding had been secured for employability services from the UK SPF as well as the Scottish Government under the No One Left Behind programme. Renfrewshire Council used, and submitted claims for, 100% of this funding to deliver the programme in 2025-6. In addition, Renfrewshire Council, through the Invest in Renfrewshire programme, contributed over £1M to the delivery of employability services in 2025-26. EAR250826 Page 30 of 72
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PUBLIC 4.3 Total external funding secured and claimed for was as follows: Scottish Government NOLB Grant Grant Commitment Final Grant Claim All-Age Employability Support £1,162,681 100% Tackling Child Poverty £1,229,771 100% Specialist Employability Support £174,073 100% UK SPF Funding 2025-26 Grant Commitment Final Grant Claim People and Skills £1,000,000 100% TOTAL £3,566,525 £3,566,525 _________________________________________________________ 5. End of Year Data Report: 2025-26 Delivery of Employability Services 5.1 During 2025/26, employability services across Renfrewshire supported 1,911 residents, including 1,487 new participants and 424 individuals who continued to receive support from the previous year. Overall participation levels remained consistent with the previous year, demonstrating sustained demand for employability support across the area. 5.2 The profile of participants highlights the increasingly complex needs of those accessing services. Almost three-quarters of all participants belonged to at least one priority group, including people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, care experience, criminal convictions, minority ethnic backgrounds and parents with dependent children. Many participants faced multiple barriers to employment, with over 550 individuals belonging to two or more priority groups. 5.3 The partnership continues to make a significant contribution to tackling inequality and supporting inclusive growth. During the year, 456 parents with dependent children received support, 782 participants reported a long-term health condition, 581 identified as disabled, 187 disclosed care experience and 221 reported previous criminal convictions. The service also supported a growing number of people from minority ethnic communities and those requiring additional language or integration support. Investment in skills and progression remained a key feature of provision. A total of 650 participants achieved qualifications during the year, resulting in 1,099 qualifications being gained across a range of levels and sectors. 5.4 Positive outcomes remained strong. During the reporting period, 734 participants progressed into a positive destination, including employment, education, training or volunteering. Of these, 576 individuals secured employment, representing the largest outcome category and demonstrating the effectiveness of the partnership's focus on supporting people into sustainable work. EAR250826 Page 31 of 72
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PUBLIC A significant proportion of those entering employment came from priority groups, underlining the partnership's success in supporting those facing the greatest barriers to labour market participation. 5.5 Detailed performance information and demographic analysis are provided in Appendix 1. _________________________________________________________ 6. Employability Performance Against National Indicators Local Government Benchmarking Framework 6.1 The Local Government Benchmarking Framework (LGBF) includes the percentage of unemployed people assisted into employment through council-supported programmes as a key indicator of local authority employability performance. 6.2 The latest published data, covering 2024/25, shows that Renfrewshire ranked 11th out of Scotland's 32 local authorities, with 16.3% of unemployed participants supported into employment through Council employability services. This compares favourably with the Scottish average of 14.2%. 6.3 Across Scotland, performance ranged from 60.0% in the highest-performing local authority area, the Western Isles, to 4.7% in Aberdeen City. 6.4 The 2025/26 LGBF results are expected to be published in Autumn 2026 and will provide a further opportunity to assess Renfrewshire's performance relative to national benchmarks. School Leaver Destinations 6.5 School Leaver Destination Statistics continue to demonstrate strong outcomes for young people in Renfrewshire. The most recent data ranks Renfrewshire joint second in Scotland for positive destinations among all 32 local authority areas. 6.6 Almost 98% of Renfrewshire school leavers progress to a positive destination, including employment, apprenticeships, further or higher education, training, or other sustained opportunities. 6.7 This represents continued improvement in performance, with Renfrewshire moving from 10th place in 2024 to 5th place last year and now achieving a joint second-place ranking nationally. 6.8 These outcomes have been supported by a targeted partnership approach involving Renfrewshire Council’s Children's Services, Invest in Renfrewshire, Skills Development Scotland and wider Local Employability Partnership (LEP) partners. Through early identification, tracking and mentoring of young people at risk of not progressing to a positive destination, partners have developed tailored career pathways, vocational opportunities and targeted support to help young people successfully transition from school into education, training or employment. _________________________________________________________ EAR250826 Page 32 of 72
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PUBLIC 7. Employability Month 7.1 Building on the success of the last 2 years, the Local Employability Partnership has agreed to continue to establish September as Renfrewshire Employability Month. The month-long programme will provide a coordinated platform to celebrate local opportunities, raise awareness of employability support and strengthen connections between residents, employers and training providers. 7.2 A diverse programme of events is being developed by the LEP involving Council services, partner organisations, education providers and local employers. Activities will be designed to engage people at different stages of their employment journey, including school pupils and their parents, young people, individuals seeking work, those looking to progress or change career, and residents facing barriers to employment. The programme will also provide greater visibility of growth sectors within the local economy, helping participants understand current and future labour market opportunities and the skills required to access them. 7.3 In addition to supporting individual progression, Employability Month will provide an opportunity to further strengthen employer engagement, showcase local success stories and promote Renfrewshire's commitment to inclusive economic growth. The initiative supports the ambitions of the Local Employability Partnership to ensure that residents of all ages and backgrounds can access high-quality advice, support, training and employment opportunities. 7.4 A draft programme of events is attached at Appendix 2. Planning is ongoing and further activities continue to be developed with partners and employers. A final programme will be circulated to members by the end of August 2026. Implications of the Report 1. Financial -the report provides information on Scottish Government and UK SPF employability funding for the current financial year and reports a full 100% claim on the previous year grant award. 2. HR & Organisational Development – employability funding supports a range of council posts and these are secured again until end March 2027. HR have been consulted / informed. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – 528 people were supported into work last year through participating in employability services. • Reshaping our place, our economy and our future – employability plays a major role in the local economy, supporting people to get into work. • Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all – NOLB specifically ensures that those most disadvantaged are not left behind. EAR250826 Page 33 of 72
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PUBLIC • Working together to improve outcomes – the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership is an excellent example of joint working amongst local partners with the aim of improving outcomes and opportunities. 4. Legal – none. 5. Property/Assets – none. 6. Information Technology – none. 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety - none. 9. Procurement – none. 10. Risk – none. 11. Privacy Impact – none. 12. Childrens Rights – none. 13. Cosla Policy Position – not applicable. 14. Climate Risk – not applicable. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers • Scottish Government Employability Grant Award 25-26; Economy and Regen Board, 20th May 2025, • Employability Update; Economy and Regeneration Board, 27th August 2024 • Scottish Government Employability Grant Award 24-25; Economy and Regeneration Board, 28th May 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager, ruth.cooper@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 34 of 72
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 1: Renfrewshire Employability Provision – Data Report 2024 – 2025 End of Year Report In Renfrewshire across all provision 1902 people have been supported. • 473 continued to receive support from 23/24 and have been included as the carry forward into April 2024. • 1429 started as new entrants this year. The following report looks at the data for this total group of 1902 participants. Client Status on Registration: Economic Status Final Year School pupil Economically Inactive Unemployed Employed (low wage) including self employed Unknown 207 346 1170 160 19 *Please note this is an indication of the client’s declaration if they are actively seeking/ready to work and does not represent their current benefit circumstances or requirement to find work. Client out of work benefits Not in receipt of benefits 738 Legacy benefits JSA/IS/ESA 89 UC - Intensive Work Search 907 UC - No work Related Requirements 59 UC- Work Focused Interview 10 UC - Work Preparation 24 UC - Working Enough/Light touch 25 Unknown 50 110 83 86 239 122 32 52 6 174 194 188 283 148 58 107 7 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550 15-17 18-19 20-24 25-40 41-50 51-54 55-64 Over 65 Gender and Age Female Male Other Prefer not to say Transgender EAR250826 Page 35 of 72
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PUBLIC *Further improvements to this benefit data collection is being implemented in 25/26 to establish a better understanding of this data ( for example reason for no benefits being categorised) Length of time out of work Length of time out of work Less than 6 months 471 Never worked 534 6 months up to 12 months 185 Age 15-17 237 12 months up to 2 years 162 18-19 175 2 years up to 5 years 153 20-24 69 5 years or more 146 25-40 35 Never worked 534 41-50 11 N/A - currently in employment 158 51-54 3 Unknown 93 55-64 4 *Please note for 25/26 recording length of time reporting has been improved to capture a more accurate length of time out of work for those who have never worked due the high numbers and impact on reporting. Client Home Address: Ethnicity The below table is a breakdown of ethnic origin and of within these groups who does not have recourse to public funds, are asylum seeker/refuges or have indicated English is their second language. *For 25/26 starts new data will be collected, for those who indicate English as a second language, to establish if they also require ESOL support. 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank… Erskine and Inchinnan Ward Houston, Crosslee and Linwood Ward Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood… Johnstone South and Elderslie Ward Paisley East and Central Ward Paisley Northeast and Ralston Ward Paisley Northwest Ward Paisley Southeast Ward Paisley Southwest Ward Renfrew North and Braehead Ward Renfrew South and Gallowhill Ward Unknown Wards EAR250826 Page 36 of 72
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PUBLIC Health and Disability Do you have any conditions lasting or expected to last 12 months or more? Yes No Prefer not to say Unknown 721 1136 12 33 Of the 721 : below is a breakdown of age and gender for these groups (do not total multiple conditions, there will be duplication). There are 1013 instances of different types of conditions indicating the number of people with multiple complex conditions. Client Ethnic Origin Total No Recourse to Public Funds English 2nd language Asylum Seeker/ Refugee African – Other 14 7 11 1 African, African Scottish, African British 13 9 9 Any Other Ethnic Group 22 2 17 5 Arab, Arab Scottish, Arab British 10 1 9 4 Asian/Asian British – Bangladeshi 5 2 4 1 Asian/Asian British – Chinese 4 0 1 Asian/Asian British – Indian 19 5 15 1 Asian/Asian British - Other Asian 26 3 14 9 Asian/Asian British – Pakistani 32 5 25 1 Black, Black Scottish, Black British 2 1 1 Black/African/Caribbean/Black British – African 45 23 29 2 Black/African/Caribbean/Black British – Caribbean 1 1 1 Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - Other Black 12 7 9 1 Caribbean or Black – Other 4 2 3 Caribbean, Caribbean Scottish, Caribbean British 1 0 Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - Other Mixed 12 1 7 Other Ethnic Group – Arab 16 3 16 10 Prefer not to say 68 2 11 9 White – English 24 0 1 White - Gypsy / Traveller / Roma 1 0 White – Irish 6 0 White - Other 138 2 107 77 White - Other British 6 0 1 White – Polish 2 0 2 White – Scottish 1417 6 5 8 White – Welsh 2 0 Grand Total 1902 82 297 130 * of the 82 NRPF recorded only 3 of them are recorded as being asylum/refugee status EAR250826 Page 37 of 72
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PUBLIC Females – 395 Male – 583 Trans Other Prefer not to say Condition 15- 19 20- 24 25 - 50 51 and over 15-19 20- 24 25-50 51 and over 18-19 20-24 20-24 51-54 Autism Spectrum Disorder / Condition - 116 21 5 6 0 30 27 23 1 1 1 1 0 Blindness or partial sight loss - 11 0 1 1 0 3 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 Deafness or partial hearing loss - 17 1 2 0 2 1 3 5 3 0 0 0 0 Full or partial loss of voice or difficulty speaking = 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Learning difficulty = 76 13 8 3 2 22 8 16 2 1 0 1 0 Learning disability = 58 5 4 5 0 15 11 15 3 0 0 0 0 Long-term illness, disease or condition = 82 4 6 12 10 9 11 15 14 1 0 0 0 Mental health condition= 337 41 23 77 18 26 21 104 25 1 1 0 0 Other condition = 171 13 10 34 21 28 8 35 22 0 0 0 0 Other developmental disorder = 21 3 2 4 0 1 3 7 1 0 0 0 0 Physical disability = 89 5 3 18 10 2 3 22 25 0 0 0 1 Prefer not to say = 9 1 0 1 0 3 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 Disability Of the people above reporting a condition, 519 indicated this affected their lives a little or a lot. This response is used to indicate that the condition is a disability. Disability Yes, a lot Yes, a little Total Does your condition or illness/do any of your conditions or illnesses reduce your ability to carry-out day-to-day activities? 141 379 519 Of the 519: below is a breakdown of age and gender for these groups (numbers do not total as clients have multiple conditions). There are 750 instances of different types of conditions indicating the number of people with multiple complex conditions. Disability Female Male Other P Prefer not to say Trans- gender 15- 19 20- 24 25- 50 51 and over 15- 19 20- 24 25- 50 51 and over 20-24 51-54 18-19 Autism Spectrum Disorder / Condition = 83 15 4 6 0 22 18 15 1 1 0 1 Blindness or partial sight loss = 9 0 1 1 0 1 1 4 1 0 0 0 Deafness or partial hearing loss = 15 1 2 0 2 1 3 4 2 0 0 0 Full or partial loss of voice/ difficulty speaking = 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Learning difficulty = 57 11 7 3 2 15 3 13 2 0 0 1 Learning disability = 42 3 4 5 0 12 6 9 3 0 0 0 Long-term illness, disease or condition = 47 1 3 9 5 3 5 12 8 0 0 1 Mental health condition = 273 33 18 65 16 19 16 83 22 1 0 0 Other condition = 119 9 6 28 16 17 7 21 15 0 0 0 Other developmental disorder = 18 3 2 4 0 1 1 6 1 0 0 0 Physical disability = 80 3 2 15 9 2 3 21 24 0 1 0 Prefer not to say = 6 1 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 EAR250826 Page 38 of 72
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PUBLIC For those who indicated either a health condition or disability the table below outlines the total number of people reporting under each condition. Please note there are significant differences across conditions where participants are less likely/ more likely to report the condition as a disability. *In 25/26 reporting we will continue to make improvements to the way we ask these questions, including staff awareness on how this data informs statistics and the need to support clearer disclosure. Condition Health Condition Disability Mental health condition 337 273 Other condition 171 119 Autism Spectrum Disorder / Condition 116 83 Physical disability 89 80 Long-term illness, disease or condition 82 47 Learning difficulty 76 57 Learning disability 58 42 Unknown 25 9 Other developmental disorder 21 18 Deafness or partial hearing loss 17 15 Blindness or partial sight loss 11 9 Prefer not to say 9 6 Full or partial loss of voice or difficulty speaking 1 1 In addition to this data 105 reported to be in receipt of non means tested disability benefits (PIP/DLA/ADP). Further information on out of work means tested benefits are included in previous tables above which will also include those who are out of work due to health conditions. *Further improvements to this benefit data is being implemented in 25/26 to establish a better understanding into the possible underreporting of this and encourage disclosure. Core and Commissioned Provision: The provision accessed by participants is as follows (clients can be on a number of programmes) : 2024/25 REP - Invest Programme 1730 2024/25 REP – Employer Recruitment Incentive 3 2024/25 REP - Funded Work Placement (External) 10 2024/25 REP - Traineeship ( Internal) 45 2024/25 REP - Apex Labyrinth Programme 19 2024/25 REP - Barnardo's Step2Work Programme 58 2024/25 REP - Barnardo's Works Best Programme 38 2024/25 REP - BDA Self Employment Programme 32 2024/25 REP - GCC Invent your Future Programme 27 2024/25 REP - GTG Warehouse & Storage Programme 12 2024/25 REP - Haus of Seisay Hairdressing Academy 11 2024/25 REP - HI Hospitality & Tourism Programme 40 2024/25 REP - Impact Arts - Express Yourself 8 2024/25 REP - IWG Charity Music Programme 8 EAR250826 Page 39 of 72
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PUBLIC 2024/25 REP - Kibble Future Ready Programme 17 2024/25 REP – Lennox Partnership Strive 2nd Chance 11 2024/25 REP – Lennox Partnership Strive Youth 10 2024/25 REP - Project Search Programme 12 2024/25 REP - REEM Thriving Families Project 10 2024/25 REP - Saltire 'English for Work' Programme 8 2024/25 REP - Street League Connect Programme 36 2024/25 REP - The Princes Trust Get Into Programme 12 2024/25 REP - VIAS Triple E Programme 29 2024/25 REP - WCS - Construction Programme 7 2024/25 REP - WCS – YES Criminal Justice Programme 12 2024/25 REP - WCS - ESOL Employment Programme 14 2024/25 REP - WCS – YES Parents Programme 17 Qualifications Achieved From 1st April 2024 until 31st March 2025 , 680 people gained a qualification whilst participating in training and employability support. Level of Qualification Number of people Unknown 6 Non Accredited Qualification 51 SCQF Level 1-4 (Access 1,2,3,4/National 1,2,3,4/Skills for Work/Intermediate 1,/General Standard Grade - SVQ1 - ISCED Level 2) 584 SCQF Level 5 (National 5/Intermediate 2/Credit Standard Grade - SVQ2 - ISCED Level 3) 105 SCQF Level 6 (Higher - SVQ3 - ISCED Level 3) 16 SCQF Level 7 (Advanced Higher - ISCED Level 3) 1 SCQF Level 10 (Honors Degree - Professional Apprenticeship - ISCED Level 6) 1 Total Unique People 680 Positive Destination From 1st April 2024 until 31st March 2025, 1902 people were supported in their employability journey. 1474 people either completed or left the service with 678 people moved into a positive destination . 428 continued on their support programme into the following year. Of the 678 who moved into a positive destination 528 moved into new or improved employment, with the rest entering, education, training, volunteering or returning to school. (Please note that of the unique people some had more than 1 positive outcomes and so the total figures are larger than the number of unique people with positive outcomes). Positive Outcomes Returned to School Entered Volunteering Entered Employment Entered Education or Training Total Unique people Female 3 9 218 52 272 Male 6 11 306 84 398 Other 0 0 1 0 1 EAR250826 Page 40 of 72
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PUBLIC Positive Outcomes Returned to School Entered Volunteering Entered Employment Entered Education or Training Total Unique people Prefer not to say 0 1 2 0 3 Transgender 0 1 1 2 4 Total 9 22 528 138 678 Of those supported in 24/25 around 428 were still active on caseloads and carried forward into the new financial year. Any outcomes for those clients will be reported in 2025-26 figures. EAR250826 Page 41 of 72
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 2: Examples of Client Case Studies Cynthia secures employment as a Medical Receptionist following Invest in Renfrewshire Medical Administration Programme. Cynthia worked part time in a Chinese take away answering calls and taking telephone orders for customers, but knew she wanted to do more than this whilst juggling family life and supporting her family. Cynthia registered with Invest in Renfrewshire and her advisor Agnes suggested she apply for a place on the forthcoming Medical Administration delivered in partnership by Glasgow Clyde College. Cynthia commenced the course in the Autum of 2024 and successfully completed it 12 weeks later. The Medical Administration course was classroom-based learning coupled with support from Invest in Renfrewshire Employer liaison Team to actively source and secure work experience placements. Throughout Cynthia’s work experience Therese, within the Invest in Renfrewshire Employer Liaison Team, continued to support Cynthia to ensure her CV was updated and that she was being marketed to local employers and GP surgeries. With the support from Therese, Cynthia was soon successful in securing a Medical Receptionist position in a local GP practise. Antonia start work with the Richmond Fellowship Antonia was referred to Invest though her job centre as she had been unemployed for the past 2 years. She needed support to improve her employability skills, confidence and search for employment. Antonia is a lone parent and stays with her 2 children (17yr old daughter and 19yr old son) in rented accommodation. Antonia’s daughter was diagnosed with autism and was going to start college. Her son is at university, he is also autistic, ADHD, dyslexic dysgraphia and has dyspraxia. This has all had a toll on Antonia’s health, she suffered from stress, anxiety, depression which stemmed through personal issues and had come out of an 8 year abusive relationship. Antonia was on medication and had also suffered from back pain. She had also been told she may be on the Autism spectrum and was waiting on a diagnosis. Antonia did not have much of a support network, felt isolated and her confidence had taken a major dip. Antonia was offered a wide range of support from the Invest in Renfrewshire team including a benefits check and better off in work calculation, wellbeing advisor support, access to RAMH services for wellbeing and mental health support, in-house employability skills sessions including CV writing, interview skills and job search and financial support for work. With help and guidance she successfully secured a full-time Support Practitioner role at the Richmond Fellowship. Her Advisor said “Sustaining employment has had a significant impact on Antonia and her family financially. It has also had a significant impact on her wellbeing, confidence, and sense of achievement. Antonia feels increasingly empowered and has the tools needed to deal with the challenges associated with starting employment. She is developing a growth mind set where she views new challenges as an opportunity for development. She is also more connected and equipped with network and knows where to ask for help and support where she needs it. Antonia feels more connected at work and has met good colleagues which is reducing her isolation.” EAR250826 Page 42 of 72
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PUBLIC Kevin secures work with George Leslie Ltd Kevin initially registered with Invest in Renfrewshire as he was seeking to move from his current part time role in retail to a full-time role within the Construction Industry which aligned with his HNC in Construction Management qualification. Kevin did not have related work experience so the Invest in Renfrewshire Team arranged a short work experience placement on site with the Kier Group at the Paisley Museum Development and to attend an employer Information Session by George Leslie Ltd held at The Russell Institute. Kevin spoke to the employer about future work and it was then agreed an interview would be set up for Kevin to attend George Leslie Ltd. Kevin was delighted to learn he was successful at interview and started employment soon after with them. George Leslie’s Project Manager Michael said - Kevin has shown enthusiasm and professionalism from the start and has developed at a steady pace showing his ability to conduct good quality work consistently. He is continuing to pick up more skills and experience, whilst taking up more responsibility in tandem with this. Kevin is an asset to the team. Kevin told us – “I really enjoy working as an engineer with the George Leslie team across various projects. Every day is different & there’s always a new something new to learn. Since starting with George Leslie, I have been able to develop myself with the support of my team & through further training. I first approached invest in Renfrewshire, looking to gain work experience & support in gaining employment in construction. Through invests links with local employers. I was able to gain work experience in construction. leading on from my work experience & with further support & advice from invest. I was able to secure employment with George Leslie. I would not hesitate to recommend others to contact Invest in Renfrewshire if you are looking for help to secure employment”. EAR250826 Page 43 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: NOLB Grant Extension: Parental Travel Initiative ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Council receives an annual grant, on behalf of the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership, from the Scottish Government under the policy areas of No- One Left Behind (NOLB) and Tackling Child Poverty. 1.2 This report provides an update to the board paper of 26th May 2026 “Scottish Government Employability Grant Award and Investment Plan 26/27” outlining an additional grant award for the Renfrewshire area to support parental travel for 2026-27 employability clients. _________________________________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Note the acceptance of additional grant for parental travel for 2026-27. (ii) Note the planned use of the funds as outlined in the report. _________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Employability is central to achieving the shared ambitions of both the Scottish Government and local authorities to reduce poverty, advance social inclusion, promote equality, and support sustainable economic growth. 3.2 Through the No One Left Behind approach, employability services are designed and delivered through strong local partnerships. Local Employability Partnerships (LEPs) operate in every local authority area, providing strategic leadership to shape provision around local labour market demands and community priorities. Item 5 EAR250826 Page 45 of 72
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PUBLIC 3.3 Employability funding from the Scottish Government is allocated to the local authority, which acts as the accountable body on behalf of the partnership. Decisions on priorities and investment are made collectively through the LEP to ensure resources are aligned to local needs. 3.4 A further NOLB funding award was received on 28th May 2026 to support the costs of parental travel. All Local Employability Partnerships are required to deliver an enhanced offer of support to parents through the “Transport to Employment – Offer to Parents”. This will put a stronger emphasis on transport as a persistent barrier to employment for low-income families, ensuring that affordability, accessibility, and availability issues are not limiting parents’ access to training, education, and sustainable work. 3.5 Up to £9 million has been identified to support the design and delivery of this Transport to Employment Offer during 2026/27 across Scotland. Renfrewshire has received a grant offer of £278,149 _________________________________________________________ 4. Purpose of the Grant and Proposed Use 4.1 The transport to employment offer is intended to support parents to: • Enter or sustain employment or progress within existing employment (including increasing hours or moving into better-paid or more secure work) • Undertake employment-related or progression-linked training. • Sustain work or increased hours during an initial transition period. • The offer is designed as time limited, targeted support. 4.2 It must not be used as a long-term travel subsidy and should form part of a wider No One Left Behind employability journey, including in-work progression support where appropriate. 4.3 The Renfrewshire LEP have agreed that the grant will be used in the following ways but with flexibility to move funds around (the table below is an extract from the Investment Plan submitted to the Scottish Government 26/6/26). It should be noted that at the time of writing the Investment Plan has not yet been approved and so the proposal below may change. 4.4 The outline below will require to be used flexibly in order to support as many parents as possible and also to maximise the spend and uptake of support. The requirement to utilise the funds before the end of March 2027 will be tight, particularly in some areas such as examining community transport options. There is no guarantee of further funding and the funding can only be used for employability clients, i.e. those being supported through NOLB and on an employability journey to secure employment. 4.5 Further reports will be brought to board as required. EAR250826 Page 46 of 72
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PUBLIC Rationale for Intervention Delivery Method / Description Delivery Partners Anticipated Start Date Number of Participants Supported Forecast Spend (3) To remove the transport financial barrier by supporting parents with travel costs to help with the transition into training or work or help to take on additional work hours. Parent Travel Support Card - provide up to 12 weeks of subsidised bus and rail travel while attending interviews, training, work placements or during the transition into employment. Renfrewshire Council (Invest), SPT, McGill's, First Bus, ScotRail, DWP, Colleges 01/07/2026 175 80,000 Provide investment in Community Transport Services to help parents living in rural villages and poorly connected communities where local transport is limited. Investment will improve access to local employment centres, employers, colleges, training providers, childcare and healthcare etc where conventional public transport is insufficient. Community Transport Access Programme - increase community transport capacity and provide a demand-responsive services operating around identified need. Community Transport Providers, Third Sector Interface, Renfrewshire Council 01/11/2026 60 55,000 Advisers frequently encounter urgent transport issues that cannot wait for formal funding processes. A locally managed discretionary fund enables rapid intervention to prevent parents disengaging from Adviser Discretionary Travel Fund - travel budget to provide small financial support grants, typically between £25 and £300, for emergency fuel, parking, childcare travel, interview travel, travel passes or exceptional transport costs. Renfrewshire Council (Invest) 01/07/2026 40 25,000 EAR250826 Page 47 of 72
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PUBLIC Rationale for Intervention Delivery Method / Description Delivery Partners Anticipated Start Date Number of Participants Supported Forecast Spend (3) employment or training because of immediate travel costs. A flexible fund enables advisers to remove immediate transport cost barriers quickly, for parents when starting work, attending employability training and support sessions, interviews, etc ensuring opportunities are not lost because of short-term financial hardship. Travel to Work & Training Fund - a discretionary grant to fund bus fares, rail tickets, fuel, taxis or emergency travel linked directly to employment or training. This may include bicycles and Electric bikes. Renfrewshire Council (Invest), DWP, Colleges, Training Providers 01/07/2026 100 38,149 Supporting parents to gain or refresh driving skills creates long-term access to better-paid employment and expands the range of opportunities available. Driving Access Pathway - Support packages would include theory tests, practical tests, driving lessons and refresher training delivered through approved instructors. Approved Driving Schools, DVSA, Invest in Renfrewshire 01/07/2026 25 35,000 Local travel hub for parents to get advice and support with transport Smart Travel & Journey Planning Hub - a dedicated online portal would provide journey planning, transport information, travel support schemes, employer transport options and links to community transport. Renfrewshire Council (Invest), SPT, Employers, Colleges 01/09/2026 400+ users 10,000 To parents are often unable to accept employment because early shifts start before Employer Travel Incentives. Glasgow Airport & Ingilston Shuttle Pilots - Through promotion and engagement Renfrewshire LEP, Employers, Chamber of Commerce, Renfrewshire Council (Business Team) 01/09/2026 35,000 EAR250826 Page 48 of 72
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PUBLIC Rationale for Intervention Delivery Method / Description Delivery Partners Anticipated Start Date Number of Participants Supported Forecast Spend (3) public transport operates. employers would make a case for accessing a transport support Incentive. Examples : Shuttle bus shared costs, car share software. Bike to work, Fuel Contribution. Guaranteed Emergency journey home 100+ Implications of the Report 1. Financial -the report provides information on Scottish Government funding for 26-27 which has increased since the previous report in May. 2. HR & Organisational Development –no staff posts are supported by this fund. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – over 400 parents looking for work will be supported through this additional fund. • Reshaping our place, our economy and our future – employability plays a major role in the local economy, supporting people to get into work. • Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all – NOLB specifically ensures that those most disadvantaged are not left behind. • Working together to improve outcomes – the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership is an excellent example of joint working amongst local partners with the aim of improving outcomes and opportunities. 4. Legal – none 5. Property/Assets – none 6. Information Technology – none 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. EAR250826 Page 49 of 72
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PUBLIC If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety - none 9. Procurement – none. 10. Risk – none. 11. Privacy Impact – none. 12. Children’s Rights – none. 13. Cosla Policy Position – not applicable. 14. Climate Risk – not applicable. _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Economy and Regeneration Board, 26th May 2026, Scottish Government Employability Grant Award and Investment Plan 26/27 ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager, ruth.cooper@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 50 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Renfrewshire Legacy Business Recognition 1. Summary 1.1 This report sets out a proposal to establish a Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award, a civic recognition scheme celebrating businesses that have traded continuously for 100 years or more and continue to make significant contributions to Renfrewshire. 1.2 It is proposed to hold a civic reception, hosted by the Provost of Renfrewshire, to recognise and celebrate these businesses and to formally present them with a Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award certificate and commemorative recognition plaque. 1.3 The event would celebrate the contribution these businesses have made to Renfrewshire over many decades and provide an opportunity to showcase their role in the area's economic and social development. ___________________________________________________________________ 2 Recommendations 2.1 Board members are asked to: (i) Agree to the establishment of the Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award celebrating businesses that have traded continuously for 100 years or more and continue to contribute to Renfrewshire’s economy, communities and identity. Item 6 EAR250826 Page 51 of 72
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PUBLIC (ii) Agree to the proposed implementation approach, including development of a legacy business register, a civic reception for recognised businesses in the current financial year and planned launch at the 2026 Renfrewshire Economy Conference. (iii) Recognise and support the strategic contribution the Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award scheme can make in strengthening place identity, celebrating business heritage and supporting wider economic development and business engagement activity across Renfrewshire. (iv) Delegate authority to the Head of Economy and Development to finalise the eligibility criteria, operating arrangements and promotional activity required to implement the initiative in conjunction with the Provost of Renfrewshire. 3. Background 3.1 Renfrewshire has a rich business heritage shaped by generations of entrepreneurs, family firms, manufacturers, retailers and professional services. While many organisations celebrate business growth and innovation, there is currently no formal mechanism for recognising businesses that have demonstrated exceptional longevity and sustained contribution over a century or more. 3.2 This paper proposes that Renfrewshire Council develops its own programme to recognise those businesses that have a longstanding connection and trading history with the area. ______________________________________________________________ 4. Proposal 4.1 The Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award is a civic recognition programme that will celebrate and formally recognise businesses that have traded continuously for a minimum of 100 years and continue to make a valued contribution to Renfrewshire past this significant milestone. 4.2 The programme will establish the Renfrewshire Legacy Business Register, recognising eligible businesses through a nomination process. Businesses successfully recognised will be invited to a civic reception hosted by the Provost of Renfrewshire and will receive an award in recognition of their achievements. The initiative will be promoted through council communications and marketing activity with the support of the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce. 4.3 For businesses becoming part of the group there are clear benefits which include: • Civic recognition • Enhanced profile and recognition • Heritage branding opportunities EAR250826 Page 52 of 72
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PUBLIC • Inclusion in a prestigious network • Recognition of contribution and legacy locally 4.4 Renfrewshire Council benefits from business involvement in the recognition of the new group by proactively promoting: • Stronger place identity • Positive business engagement • Heritage and tourism promotion • Celebration of economic resilience 4.5 The title of the programme will play a key role in communicating its purpose and prestige. The name should reflect the contribution of long- established businesses to Renfrewshire’s economy, communities, and identity. Whilst this proposal has named the programme Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award, this is a working title and subject to change. 4.6 The award would be honorary in nature and would not confer any preferential status, funding entitlement or procurement advantage. ___________________________________________________________________ 5. Branding & Launch 5.1 A small working group will be established to develop the group identity and recognition certificate, development of communication assets and preparation of promotional materials. During this period, an initial review of possible candidate businesses, working with local partners and stakeholders to identify organisations with a verified history of 100 years or more and a strong Renfrewshire connection. 5.2 September 2026 will see an open invitation process undertaken to promote self- nomination to the newly established recognition programme. Businesses will be asked to complete a short nomination form and provide a brief history and contribution to Renfrewshire. Appendix 1 outlines a proposed nomination form. 5.3 Nominations will be assessed during October and November 2026 by a small panel against agreed criteria. 5.4 The programme will launch formally at the Renfrewshire Economy Conference 2026, and the civic reception is planned for mid-January 2027. ___________________________________________________________________ 6. Key Considerations and Next Steps 6.1 Subject to approval, officers will work to develop the identity and branding for the Renfrewshire Legacy Business Award, including programme identity, promotional materials and launch communications. 6.2 Following the inaugural reception it is anticipated that each year only a small number of additional businesses, potentially one or two each year, will reach the 100-year milestone and become eligible for recognition. EAR250826 Page 53 of 72
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PUBLIC Rather than inviting recipients to attend a central event, future awards would be presented by the Provost at the recipient's workplace or business premises (wherever practical). This approach would: • Allow recognition to take place within the business's own setting; • Enable employees, customers and family members to participate; • Create positive local publicity opportunities; and • Strengthen the connection between the award and the business being recognised. 6.3 The Provost and her team have been consulted on this proposal and are very supportive. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – No additional finance sought. The cost of civic reception, awards, certificate, plaques and communications will be met from existing Economic Development budgets. 2. HR & Organisational Development – There are no implications 3. Community/Council Planning – There are no implications 4. Legal- There are no implications 5. Property/Assets- There are no implications 6. Information Technology – It would be beneficial to have a section on the Renfrewshire Council Website for this recognition programme and announcement of members 7. Equality & Human Rights- There are no implications. 8. Health & Safety- There are no implications. 9. Procurement - There are no implications. 10. Risk- Any risk associated with verification of business, can be mitigated through a clear self-nomination and reviewing framework. 11. Privacy Impact- There are no implications. 12. COSLA Policy Position - There are no implications. 13. Children’s Rights – None. 14. Climate Risk – None. ____________________________________________________ EAR250826 Page 54 of 72
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PUBLIC For additional information contact: Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager ruth.cooper@renfrewshire.gov.uk Author: Zoë Robertson zoe.robertson@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 55 of 72
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PUBLIC Appendix 1 – Draft Nomination Form Thank you for completing this nomination form. The Renfrewshire Legacy Business Recognition Programme celebrates businesses that have traded continuously for 100 years or more and made a significant contribution to Renfrewshire’s economic, social and cultural life. The information you provide will help verify eligibility, profile your business, and support future recognition and promotional activities. Please complete the form as fully as possible. Business Name: Trading Address: Website: Primary Contact: Position: Email: Telephone: Business Sector Year Established: Please provide a brief history of your business (maximum 300 words). Include any relevant information on Employment, community activity etc No. of Employees Business Characteristic ☐ Apprentice employer ☐ Graduate Employer ☐ Exporter ☐ Family-Owned Business ☐ Retail Business ☐ Manufacturer ☐ Wholesale Business ☐ Professional Service Declaration: I confirm that the information provided is accurate to the best of my knowledge. Sign: Date: EAR250826 Page 56 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Regeneration update 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides the Board with an update on progress in delivering key regeneration projects across Renfrewshire during the current year, an update on external funding and an outline of the programmes currently being developed for 2026/27. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Accepts the capital grant funding of £2,628,000 from the UK Government’s Local Growth Fund once confirmed by Glasgow City Region Cabinet; (ii) Approves the proposed allocation of spend of the Local Growth Fund once confirmed; (iii) Notes the Stage 1 Regeneration Capital Grant Fund 2027/28 applications which have been submitted to the Scottish Government; (iv) Notes progress and continuing actions to deliver projects from the range of regeneration funds identified in the report. 3. Background 3.1. In recent years, the funding of regeneration projects in Renfrewshire has relied heavily on support from national government and other external sources, often with ‘match-funding’ provided by the Council. Item 7 EAR250826 Page 57 of 72
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PUBLIC A report to the Economy and Regeneration Board on 26 August 2025 outlined the range of external capital funds available and the programmes under development. 3.2. In this context, and over the past year, officers have continued to progress various regeneration projects, programmes, and strategies with the support of external funding from the UK and Scottish Governments, as well as government agencies such as SEPA. 3.3. This report outlines progress by the Regeneration Team in terms of regenerating and revitalising our town centres, supporting communities, and promoting sustainable economic growth across Renfrewshire. ___________________________________________________________________ 4 Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (Scottish Government) 4.1 The Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) is one of the longest-running funding streams available to local authorities, having been offered annually since 2014. Renfrewshire Council has previously secured support from this fund for projects including the Russell Institute, Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub, Houston Court in Johnstone and Paisley Museum. 4.2 The RCGF has also supported projects led by community organisations, with the grant administered by the Council. These have included initiatives promoted by Linwood Community Development Trust, Active Communities in Johnstone, and more recently the PACE Youth Theatre project in Paisley. 4.3 The RCGF is a competitive annual fund open to all 32 Scottish local authorities. It is consistently oversubscribed, meaning that many submitted projects are unsuccessful. 4.4 Following a review of the RCGF and its associated programmes, the Scottish Government issued a call for Stage 1 Expressions of Interest for the 2027/28 fund in July 2026. As with the previous year's programme, the RCGF will incorporate funding previously available through the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP). Projects submitted must also demonstrate their ability to be delivered during the 2027/28 financial year. 4.5 On 20 January 2026 this Board approved the creation of a portal on the Council’s website to enable third-party organisations to submit expressions of interest for RCGF funding. Following this process six expressions of interest were received, covering a range of projects from the restoration of a listed church building to the refurbishment of community centres. 4.6 Officers also considered which Council-owned properties would benefit most from the fund. Given their prominent location within Paisley town centre and their listed status, it was determined that the restoration of the Forbes Place - Kelvin House site would be the most appropriate fit. 4.7 Following consideration by the Council's Corporate Management Team (CMT), it was agreed that the Council would submit a Stage 1 Expression of Interest to support the following projects [see Table 1]. EAR250826 Page 58 of 72
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PUBLIC Table 1 - RCGF - EOI Summaries Organisation Amount Requested Inchinnan Development Trust (IDT) £480,000 Pachedu Multicultural Hub £305,000 The STAR Project £1,300,000 Your Community Your Space (YCYS) £583,735 Western Desert Recce Group SCIO £200,000 Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust (LCDT) £900,000 Renfrewshire Council - Forbes Place / Kelvin House £3,000,000 4.8 In respect of the Forbes Place/Kelvin House bid, RCGF funding would be used to undertake essential internal repair works to enable the buildings to be brought back into viable commercial use. 4.9 Should the Stage 1 applications be successful; the Council will be invited to submit more detailed Stage 2 applications in conjunction with the other parties involved. Progress on these applications will be reported to a future meeting of the Board. ___________________________________________________________________ 5 Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP; Scottish Government) 5.1 Since 2019 the Council has used directly allocated funding from the PBIP to accelerate capital investment, supporting delivery of actions within our town centre strategies, community led regeneration proposals and community led place plans. 5.2 Through this fund the Council supported and delivered a wide range of projects across Renfrewshire including community led projects such as the creation of a community well-being hub and bike shop, restoration of various listed buildings and vacant commercial units as well as enhancements to public realm. 5.3 To date the Scottish Government has not confirmed whether there will be any future rounds of the PBIP. This has been instrumental in delivering a range of regeneration projects across Renfrewshire and officers will continue to engage with the Scottish Government as appropriate in respect of future allocations. ___________________________________________________________________ EAR250826 Page 59 of 72
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PUBLIC 6 Local Growth Fund (UK Government) 6.1 The Policy Board of 17 March 2026 noted that the UK Government's new Local Growth Fund (LGF) has been developed to replace the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This will provide Glasgow City Region (GCR) with £60.9 million over the three- year period 2026/27 to 2028/29, comprising £42.5 million capital funding and £18.4 million revenue funding. GCR has secured 43.5% of Scotland's total LGF allocation, reflecting the scale and importance of the regional economy. 6.2 In respect of Renfrewshire, the LGF represents a new source of investment to support economic growth, regeneration and commercial development. In 2026/27, Renfrewshire will receive £483,000 of revenue funding, representing 7% of the regional allocation. This funding will help sustain business support, employability and skills activity during the transition from UK Shared Prosperity Fund programmes. 6.3 The most significant opportunity for Renfrewshire lies within the capital programme. Of the £42.5 million regional capital allocation, £20 million has been earmarked to support projects within the Glasgow City Region's Enabling Commercial Space (ECS) Programme, which focuses on delivering new commercial floor space, refurbishing existing premises and bringing forward development-ready employment sites. Under the agreed allocation methodology, Renfrewshire has been provisionally allocated £2.628 million, the fourth largest allocation across the City Region. Priority Projects at August 2026 6.4 If confirmed, this investment would provide additional resources to accelerate priority regeneration and commercial property projects across Renfrewshire. Given that the GCR is required to allocate this funding quickly, discussions with GCR officers confirmed that the funding should be focused on projects that are well advanced in terms of development and/or can be delivered within a short timescale. In this context, officers reviewed a range of potential projects and concluded that the funding should be focused on the following: 1. AMIDS (Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland) • A package of enabling infrastructure and design works to support the continued expansion of AMIDS, including a revised masterplan, new access roads and an upgraded roundabout to unlock future development plots and improve site connectivity. 2. Johnstone Town Centre Vision (Houston Court Regeneration) • As reported to this Board on 26 May 2026, a comprehensive regeneration project delivering the first phase of the approved Johnstone Town Centre Vision, focussing on the vacant former foodstore site at Houston Court. This will include demolition, site investigations, design work, statutory approvals, construction of two new business units and refurbishment of existing commercial units. EAR250826 Page 60 of 72
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PUBLIC 3. Industrial Property Improvement Programme • Refurbishment and enhancement of Council-owned industrial properties, including internal improvements, yard clearance, environmental mitigation measures and public realm upgrades to improve occupancy and commercial attractiveness. Future Allocations 6.5 Beyond the ECS allocation, a further £20 million has been reserved for the development of strategic regional projects, with Glasgow City Region partners currently working to identify and develop projects of sufficient scale and impact. Renfrewshire submitted several expressions of interest through this process, including proposals linked to employment land, commercial property and town centre regeneration, and discussions continue regarding potential future investment opportunities. 6.6 Renfrewshire will also benefit from the regional Net Zero Green Business Support Programme, which will provide grants of up to £10,000 to help SMEs improve sustainability, reduce carbon emissions and support business growth. Under the agreed distribution model, businesses within Renfrewshire are expected to benefit from approximately £233,120 over the programme. 6.7 Overall, the Local Growth Fund provides a significant opportunity for Renfrewshire to secure additional investment in commercial property, regeneration and business growth initiatives, while also helping to shape wider regional projects that support the ambitions of the Glasgow City Region Regional Economic Strategy and emerging regional empowerment agenda. Further clarification on how the fund will be administered was confirmed at the August 2026 Regional Partnership meeting. ___________________________________________________________________ 7 Existing projects update 7.1 Strong progress is being made in terms of delivering three major regeneration projects across Renfrewshire, which are to shortly complete. These include:- i) Ferguslie Belltrees 7.2 Transformation of 2.69 hectares of long term vacant and derelict land into a community greenspace, with new walking and cycling routes, natural play facilities, community event space, biodiversity enhancements and improved drainage. Delivering a key strand of the Making of Ferguslie Local Place Plan, works began in January 2026 and are due for completion by the end of August, with an official opening scheduled for early autumn 2026. 7.3 Belltrees represents the second major capital investment project to address long term vacant land within Ferguslie Park. The Neighbourhood Centre Activity Space, which transformed a neglected site on Bankfoot Road into a vibrant public realm, games area and community space, was completed in autumn 2025. The project has been well received by the local community and EAR250826 Page 61 of 72
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PUBLIC recently won Gold in in the Public Realm/Landscape category at the 2026 Scottish Design Awards. ii) Erskine Civic Plaza 7.4 Creation of a new civic plaza, garden and community events space within Erskine town centre, transforming an area of long term vacant and derelict land. Delivering the first phase of a wider landscape framework for Erskine, the space provides an events area, seating, natural play features and improved pedestrian links between the town centre and waterfront. Works started on the project in February 2026 and will be completed in August 2026, with formal opening scheduled thereafter. iii) Visitor Hub, Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 7.5 The project involves the demolition of an outdated toilet block and the construction of a new visitor hub incorporating a cycle hire and storage facility, a seasonal visitor information kiosk, accessible public toilets and associated landscaping improvements. The development will improve the visitor experience, encourage sustainable travel and strengthen Castle Semple's role as a key gateway to the wider regional park and National Cycle Route 7. Works commenced October 2025 and will be completed by the end of August 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ 8 Upcoming Projects Update 8.1 Several regeneration projects are scheduled for delivery over the next 12–18 months. It is anticipated that these projects will deliver significant economic, social and environmental benefits to local communities and to Renfrewshire as a whole. • Johnstone Town Centre 8.2 The Policy Board of 26 May noted significant progress in delivery of the Johnstone Town Centre Vision, with a number of projects complete or moving to implementation stage. These include:- • Works to refurbish two vacant business units at Houston Court (38 and 56) returning these to productive use, due for completion in late summer 2026; • Demolition of the long term vacant former supermarket, with construction of two new flexible units on the site, alongside the creation of a new green link between the two Civic Squares, new parking, public spaces, planting and drainage. Demolition works are currently underway with construction works anticipated in spring 2027; • Promotion and preservation of Johnstone’s industrial heritage. This includes development of proposals for restoration of Johnstone Bandstand and a heritage trail which celebrates the town’s rich history. The heritage trail is anticipated to be launched in autumn 2026, while EAR250826 Page 62 of 72
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PUBLIC proposals for the Bandstand will be developed in the second half of 2026 with a view to delivery in spring 2027. • Renfrew Town Centre Former Police Station 8.3 Progress is being made in securing the long-term future of the former Renfrew Police Station on Inchinnan Road. The project involves the demolition of the vacant rear cell block and office extensions, alongside the removal of asbestos, dry rot and other deteriorating building elements. These works will preserve the historic B-listed frontage while addressing significant structural issues that have arisen during the building’s prolonged vacancy. 8.4 The works are intended to improve the site's attractiveness and viability for future redevelopment, while safeguarding an important element of Renfrew’s built heritage. The project represents a significant investment in stabilising the property and creating opportunities for its long-term reuse for community, commercial or other appropriate purposes. Demolition works commenced in July and are due to be completed by September 2026. Brown Institute Garden 8.5 The Brown Institute Garden seeks to honour the legacy of the former building while enhancing the town centre environment. The new garden will provide an accessible and welcoming space for residents and visitors, with seating areas and a mix of native trees, shrubs and seasonal planting. A key feature is the incorporation of salvaged architectural elements and historic materials from the building, helping to preserve a tangible connection to the site's heritage and cultural significance. 8.6 Developed following consultation with local residents and stakeholders, the project will contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Renfrew town centre while ensuring that the historic importance of the Brown Institute is recognised for future generations. The works are expected to commence in autumn 2026 and is aiming for completion in early 2027. • Linwood Town Centre 8.7 Officers have undertaken a review of the Linwood Town Centre Strategy and identified a number of opportunities for future investment, including Linwood Lade a small number of key sites within the core town centre and the potential to reflect the industrial heritage of the town. Many of these opportunities are identified in the Linwood Local Place Plan recently submitted by the Community Council. 8.8 Over the coming months, officers will work with Linwood Community Council and other local organisations to build capacity, supporting the prioritisation, development and delivery of proposals in line with the Local Place Plan. EAR250826 Page 63 of 72
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PUBLIC 8.9 Alongside OneRen and community groups, officers will also explore the potential for the heritage of the Hillman Imp to be celebrated in the town. They will also explore the potential to create destination statuary commemorating the life of Dugald Semple, the ‘Father of Veganism’, who lived a large part of his life in the town. • Steeple Buildings, Kilbarchan 8.10 The Steeple Buildings is a landmark Category A listed building located within Kilbarchan Conservation Area, jointly owned by Renfrewshire Council and the Kilbarchan General Society. 8.11 As reported to Board on 17 March 2026 officers are working to secure the long- term future of this important heritage asset while supporting increased activity and investment within Kilbarchan village centre. 8.12 A first phase of major repair works was completed in February 2026, delivering essential roof, stonework, chimney, rainwater goods and internal repairs to stabilise the building and ensure it is wind and watertight. The next phase of works will focus on the refurbishment and reconfiguration of the interior, including accessibility improvements, new toilet facilities, a refurbished kitchen, lift installation and repairs to the historic clock and bell mechanism. Officers are currently progressing the procurement of a conservation architect to support the phase 2 works. 8.13 The works are scheduled to start the first quarter of 2027 with the overall aim of ultimately bringing the building back into sustainable public use. • Museum Wayfinding Project, Paisley Town Centre 8.14 In advance of the Paisley Museum reopening later this year, officers are progressing a wayfinding project aimed at improving navigation through Paisley town centre, while strengthening connections between key arrival points and the Museum. The project will deliver a series of bespoke wayfinding features at important pedestrian decision points, helping residents and visitors navigate the town centre while celebrating Paisley’s unique heritage, culture and identity. 8.15 The project is planned to be delivered in two phases. The first phase will see the installation of a high-profile temporary wayfinding feature near County Square ahead of the Museum reopening. The second phase will deliver up to seven permanent wayfinding markers at strategic locations throughout the town centre, with associated seating where appropriate. 8.16 Designed to create a strong visual identity and improve the visitor experience, the wayfinding features will support increased footfall, encourage exploration of the wider town centre and reinforce Paisley's position as a welcoming and culturally significant destination. The second phase of works are due to be completed by February 2027. • Castle Semple Visitor Centre Improvements 8.17 Alongside the new Visitor Hub highlighted earlier in this report, further enhancements are planned for the entrance area and lochside path at Castle EAR250826 Page 64 of 72
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PUBLIC Semple. The project is being led by the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans) and will see the crossing point on National Cycle Route (NCR) 7 at the visitor centre entrance relocated further from the road junction to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. 8.18 The works will also include improvements to and widening of the lochside path, enhancing accessibility and providing a better experience for users. In addition, a crow-shaped sculpture will be installed along NCR 7, creating a distinctive landmark and a more visually striking gateway to the visitor centre. • Lochwinnoch Cornerstones: Revitalising Lochwinnoch’s Historical Axes 8.19 As outlined in a report to the Board on 26 May 2026, officers successfully secured funding from Historic Environment Scotland and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop a heritage-led regeneration programme in Lochwinnoch. Cornerstones: Revitalising Lochwinnoch’s Historical Axes is proposed as an area-based scheme that seeks to support the regeneration of Lochwinnoch town centre through investment in its built heritage and promotion of the village’s history. 8.20 The funding will enable the development phase of the programme to progress. Officers have successfully recruited a project officer to lead this phase, who is expected to be in post by the end of August 2026. The officer will work with the local community, property owners and other stakeholders to develop the programme and ultimately prepare a funding application to secure support for the delivery phase of the scheme. • Candren Burn Feasibility Study, Ferguslie Park 8.21 The Board of 25 August 2025 noted the outcomes of an initial feasibility study which identified the potential for restoration and improvement of the Candren Burn, as part of the wider Making of Ferguslie Local Place Plan. Proposals are now being developed to concept design stage, with the support of SEPA’s Water Environment Fund. 8.22 This stage of the project, which is desk based, will enable more detailed analysis of options and technical investigations, supporting future consultation with local members, residents and community groups. Work commenced in summer 2026 with completion in early 2027. ___________________________________________________________________ 9 Next Steps 9.1 Officers will continue to seek out external funding opportunities to fulfil our main priority of regenerating and revitalising Renfrewshire’s towns, villages and rural locations, helping to develop places where people want to live, work, visit and spend time. 9.2 Progress on funding applications and delivery of associated actions will be reported to Board at regular intervals as appropriate. _____________________________________________________________ EAR250826 Page 65 of 72
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – No additional funding is sought. All funding is accounted for within existing Council budgets and external funding. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – Creating a Sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy – delivery of projects and submission of funding applications supports the Council’s wider placeshaping agenda, improving quality of place, our neighbourhoods and town centres. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. 8. Health & Safety – None 9. Procurement – None 10. Risk – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – The regeneration projects proposed include the creation of sustainable links and enhancements to green space. 13. Children’s Rights – None 14. Cosla Policy Position – None ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2022. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 14 June 2022. (b) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2023. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 23 May 2023. (c) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2024. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 19 March 2024. (d) UK Shared Prosperity Fund 2025/26. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 18 March 2025. (e) Cornerstones Project, Lochwinnoch. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 20 May 2025. (f) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2025. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025. EAR250826 Page 66 of 72
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PUBLIC (g) Making of Ferguslie – Update. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025. (h) Cornerstones Project Lochwinnoch. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025. (i) Johnstone Town Centre Vision – Update. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 May 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Euan Shearer; Regeneration and Place Manager; Tel 0141 6184664. Email: euan.shearer@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 67 of 72
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Invest in Renfrewshire, working in partnership with Glasgow Clyde College, has successfully delivered DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire since 2015. 1.2 DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire usually supports 12 interns each year, each of whom has a learning disability, autism spectrum condition or both. Interns are provided with intensive work experience, as well as academic and employability support, to move towards a job outcome. 1.3 Our job outcome rates have been consistently positive when compared with the national job achievement figures for this priority group. 1.4 This report updates on progress for 2025 / 26 and confirms continued delivery of the programme into 2026 / 27. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: a) Note the content of this report and continuation of funding into 2026/27. 3. Background: 3.1 DFN Project SEARCH has been delivered in partnership by Invest in Renfrewshire and Glasgow Clyde College since 2015 and has, to date, supported 118 Renfrewshire residents across ten cohorts. Item 8 EAR250826 Page 69 of 72
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PUBLIC 3.2 DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire is a business-led, one-year transition to employment programme for young people aged 17 – 29, who have been diagnosed with a learning disability, an autism spectrum condition or both. 3.3 Up to 12 students, who are referred to as interns, are selected each year. Interns participate for 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday - 08:30 to 15:30. They split their time between a classroom-based environment, which has been created within Renfrewshire House, and on work placement within Renfrewshire Council and with local businesses. 3.4 Each intern completes 3 different work placements or ‘rotations’ during the academic year. These are generally for 20 hours per week and 10 weeks per rotation. Collectively the rotations provide each intern with up to 600 hours of work experience. These work rotations provide interns with opportunities to gain a wide range of new and transferable skills, different aspects of occupational experience and to showcase their attributes and abilities to prospective employers. 3.5 Interns also receive lecturer support and work towards achievement of SQA qualifications and job-related certifications such as Manual Handling and Elementary First Aid at Work, which assist them whilst in placement. Our supported employment job coaches provide guidance and assistance to undertake job task requirements and with employability support such as CV writing, interview techniques and job searching. 3.6 All aspects of programme delivery allow us to agree individual employment aspirations with the interns and to support them towards securing ongoing suitable employment the end of the programme. If suitable employment has not been secured on completion of the programme, participants will continue to receive up to one year of throughcare employability support to help them progress onto employment. ___________________________________________________________________ 4 DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire Delivery 2025 / 26 4.1 Twelve interns started our eleventh cohort in August 2025. The interns completed work rotations across a variety of roles including catering, cleaning, waste services, clerical and administration and customer services. 4.2 All twelve interns successfully graduated in June 2026 with each achieving all college academic requirements. The graduates also successfully gained certifications in: Food Hygiene, First Aid, Manual Handling, Health and Safety at Work and Customer Care. 4.3 Eight graduates have so far successfully gained employment including seven who have gained roles within Renfrewshire Council (3 have been selected for our Modern Apprenticeship Programme, 2 within Soft FM and 2 within Neighbourhood Services). So, the programme’s job outcome rate for 2026 / 27 is currently 67%. 4.4 70 graduates (59.3%) across our ten cohorts since 2015, have progressed to a positive job outcome. Others have also progressed to other positive destinations e.g. higher level college or university places. Employment rates EAR250826 Page 70 of 72
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PUBLIC nationally for this client group tend to be low. So, it is important that programmes such as DFN Project SEARCH provide opportunities to achieve these positive job outcomes. ___________________________________________________________________ 5. DFN Project SEARCH Renfrewshire Delivery 2026 / 27 5.1 Delivery for 2026 / 27 has been agreed with the Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership (RLEP). Salary for our two internal Job Coaches will be funded by Scottish Government No One Left Behind. Salary for the lecturer will be funded by Glasgow Clyde College through Scottish Funding Council contributions. Invest in Renfrewshire funding will also support other elements of programme delivery. 5.2 The recruitment process has been completed with offers having been accepted by 12 Renfrewshire residents to participate in the 2026/27 cohort. 5.3 Discussions are ongoing with both internal service managers and external businesses with the aim to agree a wide and varied range of work rotation placements, which will meet the work aspirations of this years interns. ___________________________________________________________________ 6. Future Reporting 6.1 It is proposed that a further update report(s) be provided to Board at a date(s) to be agreed. _________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – No additional finance is sought. 2. HR & Organisational Development – 2 FTE posts within Economic Development are supported to deliver this programme. 3. Community/Council Planning – None. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None EAR250826 Page 71 of 72
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PUBLIC 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact - None. 12. Climate Risk – Not Applicable. 13. Children’s Rights – None 14. COSLA Policy Position – Not Applicable. _________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Economy and Regeneration Board 27 August 2024 and 26 August 2025 ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Michael Moran, Assistant Economic Development Manager Email: michael.moran@renfrewshire.gov.uk EAR250826 Page 72 of 72