An Edinburgh based charity which supports over 200 people living with multiple sclerosis, has welcomed a funding boost to create a much-needed role within the organisation.
The MS Therapy Centre Lothian has received a grant from Community Jobs Scotland, a scheme that funds new posts for young unemployed people in the charity sector.
The grant will cover the salary of a receptionist for six months at the charity’s Bonnington Road facility which offers oxygen treatment and therapies to people affected by multiple sclerosis in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife.
Shazia Azhar (23) from Portobello is the new face of the Centre taking on the newly created post. The role includes welcoming members and visitors and providing administrative support, ensuring the MS Therapy Centre runs smoothly and efficiently, whilst providing a hub for members to relax and interact while awaiting therapy.
Cathy Kirk, centre manager at the MS Therapy Centre said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to have received funding from Community Jobs Scotland to establish a receptionist role. To have a welcoming face greeting members and a point of contact for them during their visit is vitally important to the service we offer.
“Shazia is proving a valuable resource to the Centre, helping with administrative support. We will be providing her with on-the-job training and support to help ensure her long-term career progression.”
Shazia said:
“I’m thrilled to be in employment through the Community Jobs Scotland initiative. This is a great opportunity for me as I’m able to develop my skills while working with a range of great people.”
The MS Therapy Centre has committed to providing on the job training, support and supervision with the aim of supporting Shazia to develop skills which will help her to find lasting employment.
Community Jobs Scotland was launched in August (2011) by the Scottish Government & SCVO and Social Enterprise Scotland to support young people, between 16-24 years old, into sustainable employment through providing meaningful paid work experience in the third sector.
