Local MSP Sandra White has welcomed the announcement that Glasgow Homelessness Network is to receive a grant of  £696,033 from the Big Lottery's Investing  in Communities Fund.

The grant is aimed at supporting a project led by Glasgow Homelessness Network in partnership with Anniesland College, North Glasgow Housing Association and Glasgow Regeneration Agency to provide support for 358 people who have been affected by homelessness.

The project will help to tackle the social exclusion associated with homelessness by providing a series of targeted 12 week courses to address the multiple barriers that contribute to repeat homelessness.

Among the courses there will be training to improve employability and  life skills, financial management and the promotion of self-reliance, those attending the courses will also be given the opportunity to gain SVQ qualifications alongside receiving support and counselling for drug dependency.

Commenting on the announcement Sandra said: "This is fantastic news, too often homeless people manage to find a house only to find that through a lack of support or skills they slip back into homelessness and projects which tackle this problem are more than welcome.

"It's really important for those trying to get their lives back on track that they're given as much support as possible, especially if they're to find a job, become part of the local community and most importantly regain the confidence that many have lost.

"The Glasgow Homelessness Network already does a great job in providing assistance to homeless people and I'm sure they'll be delighted by this award that will help them help even more people affected by homelessness."

Margaret-Ann Brünjes, Director, Glasgow Homelessness Network, said: "This significant award will make a real and timely difference to households at risk of, or moving on from, homelessness in Glasgow. We are grateful to the Big Lottery Fund for understanding our project so well and to our 4Front partners - North Glasgow Housing Association, Anniesland College and Glasgow Regeneration Agency - for their active involvement and guidance. We look forward to building on our successful partnership over the next four years."