Paid Work Placements – Feedback and Next Steps

10th September 2025

We brought together a wide range of employers, participants, and supporting partners to capture their feedback on the Paid Work Placement programme in Glasgow. It was a fantastic opportunity to share experiences, highlight successes, and look at how the programme can continue to grow.

What we heard from employers and participants

We’re delighted to say that the event highlighted just how valuable the Paid Work Placement (PWP) programme has been for both participants and host employers.

• Application & Recruitment
  Participants told us that the support they received was fundamental to their ability to apply in the first place, helping them overcome barriers such as low confidence or difficulties with form-filling. Employers appreciated the consistent information provided by application forms, and many shared how local networking often worked better than traditional recruitment routes.
• Engagement & Support
  Both participants and employers praised the structured support offered throughout placements. Key workers, training opportunities, and clear communication were all highlighted as strengths. Employers particularly valued having Glasgow Guarantee present at the event to answer questions directly and provide clarity on funding and processes.
• Suggestions for the future
  Feedback provided valuable insights into changes that could strengthen the future employability landscape in Glasgow. Participants highlighted the need for longer placements and clearer guidance on “what’s next” after their placement ends. Employers suggested that the programme would benefit from more flexible funding arrangements and simpler claims processes.

We are reporting back to our funders, Glasgow City Council, to help collectively use what we have learned so far to help shape the landscape of employability in the city.

Since Launching the Programme in 2023:

Celebrating success

One of the highlights of the event was sharing our Spotlight on Employer videos, which showcase the real impact of the programme. Two participants featured in the films also joined the event – a powerful reminder of the difference that paid placements can make. We were delighted to hear from other employers who were enthusiastic about getting involved in future videos to share their own stories and inspire others.

Next steps

We’re taking forward the feedback received and have already committed to:

• Expanding the Spotlight on Employer videos to highlight more success stories.
• Rolling out 1:1 claims support sessions to make the process easier for employers.
• Continuing to work closely with Glasgow Guarantee so employers can ask questions and access information early in the process.

Most importantly, Phase 3 of the Paid Work Placement programme is now open – and we’re inviting both new and returning employers to get involved.

If you’re an employer who wants to make a difference while accessing the benefits of this funded programme, now is the perfect time to join.

👉 Find out more and register your interest here: Paid Work Placements

Paid Work Placements is funded by the Scottish Government through Glasgow City Council on behalf of Glasgow Futures Local Employability Partnership. The programme is delivered by GCVS with partners Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Enable Scotland, CEMVO Scotland, and Move On.