For over 20 years, Connect has provided a robust employability service, supporting individuals across the East End and North East of Glasgow. Our mission is to equip people with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s evolving job market.

We offer a wide range of support, including:

• Tailored one-on-one employability guidance.

• Practical workshops and sessions that focus on CV writing, interview techniques, job searching, and personal branding.

• Access to industry-relevant training that enhances job readiness.

• Strong connections with employers and partner organisations to facilitate real job outcomes.

Our emphasis is on developing both hard and soft skills, which boosts participants' confidence and ensures they are fully prepared for employment.

GECCo promotes a place-based approach to employability, which allows us to provide holistic, person-centered support tailored to the unique needs of each local community.

We are proud to offer support through Glasgow’s four main employability contracts:

Way Ahead: This program assists individuals with criminal convictions or those affected by homelessness.

• Glasgow Ethnic Minority Service: We provide culturally responsive employability support for diverse communities.

• All In Glasgow: Our focus is on health and disability inclusion in employment.

• One Parent Families Scotland: We support lone parents in accessing sustainable career opportunities.

Our youth employability service is flexible, supportive, and dedicated to meeting the needs and aspirations of young people as they move forward.

We customize our support based on individual requirements, whether they need minimal guidance or comprehensive, wraparound assistance. Our aim is to provide meaningful pathways and opportunities for progression.

We assist young people with:

• Applications for college, university, or apprenticeships through Glasgow Guarantee and GCVS

• Finding and applying for Modern Apprenticeships

• Crafting impactful CVs and cover letters

• Securing work placements and gaining industry experience

• Accessing bus passes and practical travel support

• Building confidence and enhancing digital skills

Additionally, through our wider inclusion services, we promote financial and digital literacy, helping young people navigate the welfare system and empowering them with the tools necessary to build strong, independent futures.

We assist individuals in accessing a diverse array of both funded and non-funded training opportunities. Whether you're aiming to enhance your skills or acquire new qualifications, we are here to help you get closer to the job market.

Some of our most popular training options include:

• CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

• SIA (Security Industry Authority Licence)

• Forklift Certification

Additionally, we are dedicated to supporting individuals in pursuing training they recognize as relevant to their goals, even if it falls outside of our standard offerings.

In 2025, GECCo received funding to initiate a distinctive ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) pilot programme primarily aimed at assisting Asylum Seekers and Refugees. This initiative provided comprehensive support, including practical-focused English classes, confidence-building activities, and cultural orientation, as well as employment pathways leading to work, volunteering, and education.

Fifty participants engaged in the pilot, setting the foundation for a sustainable ESOL programme designed to facilitate integration and success for New Scots.