These workshops, called Workwise, focused on enhancing both digital skills and employability and have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees keen to take proactive steps towards re-joining the workforce.

The interactive Workwise sessions, tailored specifically for unemployed Fife Housing Group tenants actively seeking employment, were praised for their practical approach, supportive environment and immediate impact on participants’ confidence in navigating the job market.

They were able to learn the basics, from navigating device and system jargon to understanding internet safety and the importance of online privacy. The workshops also included dedicated employability training, with participants taking part in food and hygiene certifications and CV skills sessions to strengthen their job applications.

Designed to equip participants with essential online skills and boost their confidence in the digital job market, the workshops provided expert guidance on identifying employment opportunities and tackling common challenges faced when job hunting online. As part of the initiative, each tenant who completed both sessions received a £50 gift voucher to spend on items they needed to support their job search.

Participants described the sessions as “invaluable” and “a real confidence boost”, with some expressing a renewed sense of motivation and clarity in their employment journey.

Melissa Birrell, engagement officer at Fife Housing Group, said: “It was fantastic to see tenants getting so much from these sessions. Building digital skills can be daunting and some of the tenants that came along had been out of the job market for decades, but this kind of hands-on support makes all the difference. We’re proud to work alongside partners like the Salvation Army to create real opportunities for our tenants to grow in confidence and take positive steps toward employment.”

For Fife Housing Group, these workshops are just one example of their commitment to giving something back to their tenants and the local community by empowering tenants with the tools and confidence needed in today’s highly competitive job market.

Plans are already being explored to build on the success of these workshops by running similar Workwise sessions in the future.