Impact Arts, a national community arts charity and social enterprise, have been working partners Barrhead Housing Association and East Renfrewshire Council to deliver Creative Pathways Plus, a full-time creative employability programme.

The charity’s flagship programme works with young people aged 16-24 over an 18 week period.

Young people have been learning product design for retail including upcycled furniture and crafts for the home as well as fashion accessories.

Bobby Mcareavey, aged 17, said: “My mind has become ten times more creative since starting Creative Pathways. I enjoyed setting up our pop-up shop and making paintings to be sold there. It was great seeing our work being sold. I have realized through the programme that I might like a career in social work but I am currently looking for work and would like to become self-employed in the future.” As well as teaching invaluable creative skills in the workshops, the group of 6 talented young people gained other skills and experience including retail and customer service, working with clients on commissioned projects, team building skills and personal development support.

A new group of young people started a second 18 week programme in November and Impact Arts are encouraging 16-24 year-olds from Barrhead to get involved.

Kirsty Gallacher, Programme Manager for Impact Arts said: “Last year, 88 per cent of young people who took part in Creative Pathways moved into employment or further education. I would encourage anyone with even a passing interest in creative pursuits to get involved and see what kind of opportunities come of the programme.” Shirley Robison, chief executive of Barrhead Housing Association said: “This project is delivering something new and innovative for young people in the area and we’re delighted it’s off to a great start. We would like to congratulate the young people that have completed the first 18 week programme and encourage other local young people to register for the next programme. It is only possible thanks to the contributions from partners especially Impact Arts and to our funders, principally Scottish Government People and Communities Fund and Inspiring Scotland.” Barrhead councillor Tommy Reilly has also been a supporter of the projects at the Barrhead Museum being undertaken by Impact Arts.

He said: “I would like to say how impressed I have been at the latent talent that has been exposed through this Creative Pathways programme involving young people from across East Renfrewshire.

“I have also been impressed by the professionalism of the Impact Arts staff and bond and genuine concern they have shown to each of the participants. Something special is happening here. West College Scotland are delighted to be supporters of this programme.”