News

The Rangers Charity Foundation has received funding for the first time from CashBack For Communities to deliver a new and innovative employability programme that aims to re-engage former offenders and help them move towards a more positive future including working, volunteering or further education.

The ‘Cashback – Towards New Futures Project’ will be delivered within Ibrox Stadium and will work in partnership with four Scottish prisons and Govan Thriving Place to target and support a variety of young people from the local area and beyond.

CashBack for Communities is a unique Scottish Government programme which takes funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and invests them into community programmes, facilities and activities largely aimed at diverting young people at risk away from potentially criminal or anti-social behaviour.

The Rangers Charity Foundation programme will engage hard to reach individuals using the power of football and will provide a fast-moving and individualised programme that will build confidence, motivation and self-esteem. The course aims to give the young people involved the skills and experience they need to re-engage with society and plan for a more positive and constructive future.

Participants will improve their physical and mental health by taking part in accredited fitness and coaching sessions and a mental health first aid course. The programme includes a variety of formal and industry recognised awards (including utilising the Foundation’s SQA Centre status), vocational work experience and the development of core skills which will greatly enhance their employment prospects and CVs.

Participants will have continued support after completion of the course to help them stay motivated and on track to achieving their goals.

Jamie Duncanson, Rangers Charity Foundation Senior Community Executive, commented:

“We are delighted to receive this funding and look forward to delivering our new ‘Cashback – Towards New Futures’ project. We have a huge amount of experience in delivering this type of programme to vulnerable young people and we look forward to helping them to achieve their ambitions and move forward in a positive direction.”

Scotland’s Justice Minister Humza Yousaf, who announced the funding today, commented:

“CashBack is a unique and potentially life-transforming programme that helps expand young people’s horizons and supports them to realise their ambitions and reach their full potential.

“This phase of CashBack has a particular focus on projects that support young people and communities most affected by crime.

“Since the programme began in 2008 we have delivered over two and a half million activities and opportunities for young people across Scotland and I am delighted that many further young people will be supported and inspired over the next three years.”