Supporting Working Parents: From Labourer to Telehandler

Balancing full-time work while supporting a family can be a difficult task. For many working parents, the desire to progress in their career is often held back by the cost of training and qualifications needed to move forward.

To help overcome these barriers, North Ayrshire Council introduced the Parental in Work Support (PIWS) Fund, facilitated by CEIS Ayrshire. This initiative provides financial support to eligible working parents, helping cover the cost of training needed to progress in their careers. By removing financial obstacles, the fund opens up opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.

First Steps

Daniel, a labourer, was motivated to take the next step in his career. To do so, he needed a telehandler qualification, something he couldn’t afford to fund on his own.

After contacting CEIS Ayrshire, Daniel met with Business Service Officer Hazel, who explained the support available and guided him through the application process. Once approved, Hazel arranged for Daniel to complete his training with Blackwood Training Academy, specialists in plant operator certification.

A Positive Outcome for the Whole Family

With his new qualification, Daniel secured a pay rise and transitioned into a new role. The impact has been significant for him professionally and personally, helping him provide a better quality of life for his family.

What Daniel Says

The training I received was brilliant. This funding has made a big difference to my family life. I’ve had a pay rise and I’m now on a telehandler, mastering my new role. I’ve already told a few people about it. I’ve said it’s an amazing opportunity that will better your life, improve your pay, and help you get up the ladder. My message to anyone thinking of applying is go for it. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Creating Opportunities for Working Parents

Daniel’s story shows exactly what the PIWS Fund can do. It helps parents gain the skills they need, moves their careers forward and strengthens their families and communities. With this kind of support, working parents can finally access opportunities that were out of reach, boost their income, and create a more stable future for the people who depend on them.

If you are a working parent living in North Ayrshire and would like to progress in your career, please check the eligibility criteria below. If you meet the requirements, get in touch by completing the application form here.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Live in North Ayrshire
• Lone parent
• Parent or child with a disability
• Parent aged 25 or under
• Minority ethnic parent
• Parent with three or more children
• Parent with a child under 1 year old