ALL the members of Pollok’s Foote family are among the 5000 people who have taken advantage of EQUIP, the former Greater Pollok Development Company’s services.

Mum and dad, Donna and George, teenagers Christina and Robert have all found jobs or vocational training thanks to the recently re-branded local development company.

After 20 years of unemployment George (48) completed a General Construction Operative Course and now works building the new Silverburn shopping centre.

He said, ‘My confidence and self-esteem was at rock bottom. I was caught in the benefits trap with no way out until I got in touch with EQUIP. With their help I now have qualifications for the first time and I’m working full-time.’

George’s daughter Christina is helping fill a UK-wide skills gap by working as an apprentice plumber for East Kilbride’s WC Flush Plumbing. EQUIP helped to place her in the job after she started on a Plumbing and Heating course at North Glasgow College.

Christina (17) said, ‘My family are really proud of me, especially as it is difficult for girls to get a plumbing apprenticeship. I am learning all aspects of the plumbing trade and I’m loving every minute of it. Contacting EQUIP was the best move I made. I now have money and a future in the plumbing industry, and what’s more, plumbing is my ideal job.’

Robert (16) is keen to follow his father into construction. He sampled a variety of construction courses at Cardonald College before starting a personal development course, funded by the Princes Trust, to help him become ‘job ready’, learning communication, team working, numeracy and literacy skills.

Through EQUIP, Mum Donna has learned new skills including first aid. This helps with the numerous community and voluntary organisations she is involved with.

EQUIP’s Managing Director Bill Munsie said, ‘With an estimated 5000 jobs being generated in the South West of Glasgow, EQUIP is turning the area around and the Foote family are indicative of this work. We are delighted to assist the entire Foote family who, through their hard work, have benefitted from the training and employment advice available through EQUIP.’