A 20-YEAR-OLD man has overcome the demons of depression with much to look forward to after doing a work placement — in Ayr job centre.

Just months after moving here, having lived in Blackpool for a time, Will Stewart has been accepted as a trainee on a recruitment programme.

He is hopeful that it will lead to a more permanent, and paid, position when his trial period ends and there is now light at the end of a long dark tunnel.

It was when he was in Blackpool and claiming Jobseekers Allowance he suffered from depression and decided to leave the Lancashire town.

But he remained unwell as he tried to settle back in Ayrshire and was reluctant to contact his work coach — in person or by phone.

Another issue was that he was taking his mother along to interviews, which did not impress potential employers.

His work coach refused to give up on him, though, and took a different approach, speaking to Will about computer programmes and games.

This was a masterstroke and Will began to open up, have proper conversations and, before long, was confident enough to attend interviews alone.

Gradually his mental health improved and he was keen to do something to help him find a job, which was when his work coach suggested a Movement to Work placement.

Based at Ayr Jobcentre, Will would be supporting clients use the Universal Jobmatch system and how to create e-mail accounts.

Will gave it a try and hasn't looked back since, having then successfully applied for a trainee programme with East Ayrshire Routes to Recruitment. 

Specifically aimed at employment in an office/admin environment, young people up to aged 29 are supported in gaining appropriate qualifications.

Meanwhile, South Ayrshire Council are working in partnership with the Department of Work and Pensions and Skills Development Scotland to set up an Ayrshire Traineeship Programme. 

This offers young people aged between 16 and 29 years, who have been out of work for at least six months and resident in South Ayrshire, support to gain sustained employment. 

Participants are paid the national minimum wage for the duration of the programme which lasts anything between six and 52 weeks, depending on individual need. 

It consists of four elements — preparation, focus, activation and advancement.

Call the jobcentre on 0345 6043719 or go in person to the office at Wallacetoun House in John St.