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Marcus Pettigrew credits the Cashback course he recently completed with helping him to secure a job after a long search – just in time for him becoming a Dad!  

“It has made my life much better because I have a baby girl coming in July and I have moved in with my girlfriend so I am really happy that I’ve found one” 

Marcus had been out of work for at least a year and finding it hard to get a job due to the pandemic, especially with a criminal record.

His work coach encouraged him to get into the Rangers Charity Foundation’s Cashback – Towards New Futures programme where he learned new skills like first aid and mental health. He then successfully applied for a job and started in April.

Marcus remarked on the difference the course has made to his life:

“Before the course, I was usually on applying for jobs every day and jobs that I wouldn’t usually go for because I was desperate, but my job coach showed me the job I have now and Rangers got me the kickstart for it”

It helped my confidence to know that there are ways to help me find a job with a criminal record and have support behind me.”

Marcus was referred to the course through Job Centre Plus, who are a key partner in the Foundation’s Ibrox Youth Hub – a new programme aimed at helping young people into employment.

Jamie Duncanson, the Foundation’s Senior Community Executive added:

“We are delighted for Marcus and this is a prime example of how our partnership programmes can make a real difference to people’s lives”

Asked what his advice for other people in a similar situation, Marcus said:

“Join the course. Just try your hardest and put the work in and you’ll find a job in no time.”

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 Foundation’s Cashback – Towards New Futures programme aims to re-engage young people with current or past convictions and help them move towards a more positive future including working, volunteering or further education.

The project is delivered within Ibrox Stadium and works in partnership with four Scottish prisons and Govan Thriving Place (as well as other referral routes) to target and support a variety of young people aged 16 – 24 from the local area and beyond.

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 initiative 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.

The programme is free and is run four days per week for eight weeks.

The next course is starting in August 2021. For more information, or to get involved, email derekrhoddan@rangers.co.uk

Cashback Success Stories –

Participants put their new skills to good use when they saved a women’s life by using their first aid knowledge. 

Cashback Success For Declan: “It Changed My Life!”