“A Breath of Fresh Air” – Business owner on Skye describes recruit employed through HERO scheme

Highland Council’s HERO scheme is enabling employment opportunities for individuals of all ages, who face barriers to securing jobs, via businesses who are seeking new employees.  Through the scheme, businesses can apply for grants of up to £6,000. 

HERO is funded by The Highland Council and the Scottish Government under the No One Left Behind and Young Person's Guarantee Funding Streams. It helps people of all work ages and with the greatest barriers to employment secure and stay in jobs.

In May the Economy and Infrastructure Committee approved an allocation of up to £1m over financial years 2021/22 and 2022/23 from the Economic Prosperity Fund to continue to enable the HERO grant scheme to support businesses to create new jobs for unemployed adults.

Ruth Mackinnon (L) with business owner Hermione Lamond (R)

Through this scheme, it has helped Hermione Lamond of Elgol Shop on the Isle of Skye and her HERO recruit, Ruth MacKinnon.

The Elgol Shop is a wee village shop at the end of a long road on the south of the Isle of Skye.  They provide, coffees, home-baking, and a selection of locally made crafts.

Speaking about the HERO scheme, Hermione said: “The HERO scheme has made such a difference to me as it has enabled me to employ Ruth permanently, as previously she was employed throughout the summer months.  Having her as part of my small team throughout the year has meant that as a business owner it has taken the pressure off me, as I don’t need to be at the shop full time and am therefore freed up to carry out the other roles involved when running a business.  Ruth is like a breath of fresh air. She has helped me to put the business on an even keel and is too good to let go!”

Ruth said: “Having a job, which extends through the winter is not an option on Elgol, so this opportunity has helped me keep to my routine, as previously I had experienced mental health issues.  I feel part of the team and having grown up on Elgol, worked away and latterly returned, I feel as if I’ve now got a great work life balance.  The shop opens on reduced hours over the winter months and this time is essential for all the team to plan the forthcoming season’s activities, as well as carry out a good spring clean!”

Businesses who are interested in learning more can access more information via www.highland.gov.uk/hero