Some Things Not Changing at Nairn's

A change of name doesn't necessarily mean a change of policy. Simmers, the biscuit manufacturer based in east Edinburgh has changed its name to Nairn's Oatcakes, but it's still helping people who face disadvantage.

Mark Laing, Managing Director, said "We're involved in a new venture designed to give employment opportunities to people who have learning difficulties or face problems. It's a programme we're operating with Jobcentre Plus and Haven Products, a social enterprise based in Glasgow.

Suitable candidates have two weeks placement with Haven where they learn about the disciplines invloved in the workplace. Assuming all goes well they then come to work with us."

The programme has been in place for two months and it began with two people. They're now in place with Nairn and fitting in well. It's hoped more can be helped in the fullness of time."

"We like to play an active role in Scottish Business in the Community and we've always believed in helping people who have to contend with hardships that most of us don't come up against," added Mark.

"I know that if you give people the chance you often get rewarded. We have several people on our books who've had problems in the past - but they're hard-working skilled individuals with a very good attitude.

"Of course, the company benefits, too. We get good workers, and we can use the programme for developing other staff. During their first few weeks with us the newcomers are 'buddied' with an existing worker, and that mentor often get as much out of the experience as the trainee.

"We've been involved with other programmes in the past, but we're particularly pleased with this new initiative. It gets all the elements right and has already produced two very good people for us."

For  information on SBC's Ready for Work programme, click here