Business and employee case studies

Established in 1845, Robert Mackie of Scotland Ltd is a prestigious manufacturer of knitted accessories, renowned for producing luxury hats, scarves, and gloves.

With 84 dedicated employees, the company exports its high-quality products to markets in:

• Japan
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• North America
• Belgium
• Holland

Rooted in the rich tradition of the Scottish textile industry, Robert Mackie has been crafting exceptional knitwear for generations, using only the finest natural yarns and sustainable manufacturing processes.

The challenge

As a globally recognised leader in the knitwear industry, Robert Mackie of Scotland has always prioritised quality and sustainability. However, the company faced the growing need to reduce its carbon footprint and align with the global shift towards net zero emissions.

Achieving this goal required a comprehensive strategy and the right tools to measure, plan, and implement effective carbon reduction practices.

The solution: Net Zero Accelerator Programme

In response to this challenge, Robert Mackie Knitwear joined the Net Zero Accelerator Programme, supported by East Ayrshire Council. This 12-month programme is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) embark on their net zero journey efficiently and cost-effectively, in collaboration with a network of like-minded businesses.

The Accelerator Programme provided Robert Mackie with immediate access to CBN Expert Carbon Accountancy Software and expert advice to establish their carbon benchmark. The programme also offered a structured plan to eliminate carbon emissions, and the company received an independent annual report compliant with the UK Government’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy.

This comprehensive support enabled Robert Mackie to create credible plans for accreditation and a cost-effective route to compliance and carbon reduction.

Impact of the Net Zero Accelerator Programme

The participation in the Net Zero Accelerator Programme had a transformative impact on Robert Mackie Knitwear's business operations. By leveraging the resources and expertise provided, the company was able to:

1. Establish a Carbon Benchmark: Utilising the CBN Expert Carbon Accountancy Software, Robert Mackie accurately measured its carbon footprint, setting a clear benchmark for future reductions.
2. Develop a Carbon Reduction Plan: With expert guidance, the company formulated a detailed plan to minimise carbon emissions across all stages of their manufacturing process.
3. Achieve Compliance and Accreditation: The independent annual report ensured that Robert Mackie met the SECR policy requirements, enhancing their credibility and commitment to sustainability.
4. Enhance Operational Efficiency: The focus on reducing waste and optimising manufacturing processes not only contributed to environmental sustainability but also improved operational efficiency.

Testimonials from the managing director

Graeme Haddow, Managing Director of Robert Mackie Knitwear, emphasised the significant benefits of the support received:

The assistance from East Ayrshire Council and the Net Zero Accelerator Programme has been instrumental in our journey towards sustainability.

The expert advice and carbon accountancy tools provided have enabled us to accurately measure our carbon footprint and develop a robust plan to reduce it.

We are proud to align our business practices with the global net zero goals and enhance our reputation as a sustainable and responsible manufacturer.

Haddow further highlighted the collaborative aspect of the programme:

Being part of a group of like-minded businesses has been incredibly valuable. Sharing best practices and learning from others' experiences has enriched our approach to sustainability and accelerated our progress.

The community support has been phenomenal, and we are excited about the positive impact this will have on our business and the environment.

Conclusion

Robert Mackie Knitwear's involvement in the Net Zero Accelerator Programme underscores the profound impact of targeted support and strategic investment in sustainability initiatives.

The assistance from East Ayrshire Council has empowered the company to effectively tackle its carbon emissions, resulting in substantial business growth and enhanced operational efficiency.

This case study illustrates how businesses can achieve significant environmental milestones with the right tools, guidance, and community support, aligning with broader goals of economic development and sustainability.

Robert Mackie of Scotland continues to set an example in the knitwear industry, demonstrating that a commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability can drive meaningful change and business success.

Established in 2011, First Saddlery is a premier supplier of equestrian safety products and casual wear in the UK.

With a dedicated team of three employees, including key business personnel Karene Wallace and Alex Scott, the company has successfully expanded its reach to international markets, exporting to Germany and America.

As a well-established retail business situated within a show centre, First Saddlery caters to a broad range of equestrian activities, providing top-notch safety gear and casual wear.

The challenge

First Saddlery had thrived on its physical presence, with customers travelling from all over the UK to visit their shop.

Despite this success, the company's online platform had not been able to replicate this experience or generate significant sales. The outdated website lacked essential features such as multiple payment options, loyalty schemes, and an efficient product showcase, limiting their ability to attract and serve customers online.

The solution

Recognising the potential for growth through an improved online presence, First Saddlery sought the support of East Ayrshire Council and received a Community Wealth Building grant to assist with their business development project.

With the grant, the company aimed to revamp their website and enhance their digital marketing strategies. They enlisted the expertise of a local design consultancy, who advised ways to better utilise marketing tools and improve the user experience.

Impact of the Community Wealth Building Grant

The funding and consultancy support had a transformative impact on First Saddlery's business.

The new website facilitated a significant increase in online sales, reaching customers beyond their local area and attracting international buyers. With a modern website, the company could leverage advanced marketing tools to create engaging campaigns, boosting their online visibility and attracting new customers.

Karene Wallace, co-owner of First Saddlery, shared her enthusiasm about the support received:

The grant from East Ayrshire Council has been a game-changer for us. The consultancy opened our eyes to the possibilities of a robust online presence. We are now able to reach a broader audience and provide our loyal customers with the same excellent service online as we do in-store.

Alex Scott also expressed her gratitude:

This project has allowed us to significantly increase our turnover and even plan for additional staff. The community support has been incredible, and we are excited about the future growth of First Saddlery.

Meeting the Community Wealth Building Agenda

The project aligns seamlessly with the Community Wealth Building agenda by promoting local economic growth, enhancing digital infrastructure, and fostering community resilience.

By upgrading their website and expanding their online presence, First Saddlery has been able to:

1. Generate Local Employment: The projected growth in online sales is expected to create new job opportunities within the local community, contributing to local economic stability.
2. Support Local Suppliers: With increased sales and a robust online platform, First Saddlery can strengthen partnerships with local suppliers and offer drop shipping options, further embedding wealth within the community.
3. Enhance Community Engagement: The upgraded website allows First Saddlery to better engage with their customers through online loyalty schemes and discounts, including those for NHS and Scottish Police Recreation Association (SPRA) members, fostering a sense of community and loyalty.

Conclusion

First Saddlery's case illustrates the profound impact of targeted support and strategic investment in digital infrastructure.

The assistance from East Ayrshire Council has enabled the company to overcome their online challenges, resulting in substantial business growth and enhanced customer satisfaction. This transformation underscores the importance of community support in fostering local businesses and driving economic development, perfectly aligning with the principles of the Community Wealth Building agenda.

By enhancing their digital presence, First Saddlery has not only expanded its market reach but also reinforced its commitment to the local community, showing how businesses can thrive with the right support and strategic investments.

Annandale Design (UK) Ltd, established in 1992, has built a solid reputation for manufacturing and installing architectural metalwork and secondary steelwork.

With a team of 28 skilled employees, the company specialises in a range of products including industrial stairs, ladders, walkways, and bespoke fabrications.

Under the leadership of Director Graeme Frew, Annandale Design has consistently delivered high-quality solutions to its clients.

Background

Recognising the need to manage its recovery post-COVID, Annandale Design sought to enhance its strategic framework and build a stronger management team. To achieve these goals, the company turned to East Ayrshire Council's GoStrategy initiative for professional consultancy support.

Initial consultancy engagement

Under the initial GoStrategy consultancy, Annandale Design experienced substantial benefits.

The consultancy focused on a thorough review of the company's financial performance, identifying areas of underperformance, and implementing a robust "Pricing Tool" which significantly improved profit margins.

Regular financial performance review meetings were established, ensuring ongoing monitoring and adjustment of financial strategies.

Director's insight

Graeme Frew, the Director of Annandale Design, reflected on the initial consultancy, stating:

The introduction of the Pricing Tool and regular financial review meetings have been key for us. We've seen a significant increase in our profit performance, and our management team is now more engaged and informed.

Need for continued support

Building on these successes, Annandale Design identified several new initiatives requiring further professional consultancy support through the GoStrategy programme. These initiatives aimed to strengthen the management team, enhance strategic decision-making, and ensure sustainable growth.

The new GoStrategy work encompassed a comprehensive set of objectives including:

• the development of a strategic plan for medium-term succession
• the creation of a new financial model to consider company valuation, tax implications, and funding structures
• a leadership development plan to consider promoting existing management team members to director positions

Strategic outcomes

Over a 12 month period, the consultancy delivered long-term, wide-ranging support focusing on establishing financial and production performance targets, introducing a system to measure productivity and efficiency against pricing and profit contribution, and facilitating regular management meetings to measure performance against targets and share results with the workforce.

Impact on the company

Graeme Frew noted the positive impact of the consultancy:

The strategic support we've received through the GoStrategy initiative has been instrumental in our company's evolution.

From financial modelling to succession planning and enhancing our online presence, we've laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and future success.

Conclusion

Annandale Design’s collaboration with the GoStrategy consultancy has not only addressed immediate challenges but also positioned the company for long-term success.

Through strategic planning, financial modelling, and leadership development, Annandale Design continues to thrive and adapt in a competitive market, ensuring its legacy and growth for years to come.

Company background

Founded by Darren Hicks in 2022, DH Eco Solutions is a dynamic start up dedicated to addressing domestic and commercial waste management challenges through innovative solutions.

The company, anticipating employing seven people within its first year, aims to revolutionise waste management with its flagship product, the EcoStamp Waste Compactor. With a strong commitment to sustainability, DH Eco Solutions’ ambitions align closely with the net zero objectives set by East Ayrshire Council.

Business Gateway support

The journey of DH Eco Solutions from concept to a high-growth start up business has been significantly bolstered by the Business Gateway team. From the outset, Business Gateway provided comprehensive support to Darren Hicks, aiding in the development of a robust business plan and aligning the company's operations with net zero objectives—a critical priority for East Ayrshire Council in its business support initiatives.

As Darren says:

Business Gateway's support has been instrumental in turning my vision into reality.

Their guidance in business planning and commitment to sustainability has empowered us to create a product that not only addresses waste management issues but also aligns with the broader goal of achieving net zero emissions.

The EcoStamp Waste Compactor

The EcoStamp Waste Compactor is designed to address the pressing issue of waste overflow in domestic and commercial settings.

With a focus on ease of use and accessibility, the product is portable, lightweight, and electronically operated. It is capable of compressing waste in standard 190-240l wheelie bins, reducing waste volume by up to two-thirds and is an innovative approach that offers a practical solution to the challenges posed by infrequent waste collection schedules.

Environmental and societal benefits

The EcoStamp aligns closely with the net zero agenda by offering several key environmental and societal benefits:

1. Reduced Carbon Footprint: By extending the interval between waste collections, the EcoStamp compactor helps decrease the number of trips made by waste collection vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions.
2. Enhanced Civic Health and Hygiene: By minimising waste overflow, the product reduces the risk of infection from rodents and seagulls, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
3. Mitigation of Fly Tipping: The efficient management of waste within bins reduces the incidence of fly tipping, leading to improved cleanliness and reduced environmental contamination.
4. Financial Savings: Users benefit from reduced costs associated with frequent waste disposal and overflow management.
5. Effective Recycling: By compressing waste, the EcoStamp compactor facilitates more efficient recycling processes and reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.

Market readiness and future plans

The EcoStamp waste compactor prototype was developed with significant contributions from Interface, Scottish Enterprise, and Robert Gordon University Aberdeen and is positioned at a price point which makes it an affordable solution for both domestic and commercial customers.

DH Eco Solutions is now focused on transitioning from prototype to market-ready product, with plans for a UK-wide launch. The company's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its adherence to real living wage agreements and its ongoing efforts to secure patent protection for the EcoStamp waste compactor.

Conclusion

DH Eco Solutions exemplifies how innovative start ups can contribute to environmental sustainability while addressing practical waste management challenges.

With the support of Business Gateway, Darren Hicks has not only developed a viable business model but also created a product that supports East Ayrshire Council's net zero objectives. The EcoStamp waste compactor stands as a testament to the positive impact of entrepreneurial spirit combined with strategic business support.

By targeting and solving waste issues at the source, DH Eco Solutions is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Lintmill Lodges presents a charming getaway nestled in the picturesque village of Sorn. Designed for adults, especially couples, these bespoke woodland lodges come with the luxury of wood-fired hot tubs. The serene retreat offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cozy comfort, and is an ideal escape in the heart of East Ayrshire.

Founded by Nicola Young, Lintmill Lodges features three self-contained timber lodges, all just a short stroll from the village of Sorn.

As Nicola says:

Our lodges offer guests the charm of outdoor glamping with the comfort of a warm, cozy home, especially when the Scottish weather turns unpredictable

Each lodge is equipped with an en-suite shower room, a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a snug seating and dining area. The outdoor terrace boasts a private wood-fired hot tub, perfect for unwinding under the stars. Often, the hot tub is ready upon arrival, ensuring a truly indulgent experience from the get-go.

Marketing and online presence

Nicola explains:

We primarily market and book our accommodations online, with a strong emphasis on social media. Our website is essentially our 'shop window', so it needs to be informative, user-friendly, and visually appealing.

Developing the branding and logo was the first step, allowing Nicola to share the journey on social media, attract customer interest, and boost the online presence. Nicola attended Business Gateway webinars and courses to enhance her skills in creating engaging social media posts and reels.

Support from Business Gateway

Business Gateway has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Lintmill Lodges.

Nicola shares:

The support from Business Gateway has been invaluable. They provided advice on choosing between a franchise or our own business model and then helped us develop a comprehensive marketing plan.

This support included setting up the website and social media accounts, which are crucial for driving direct bookings and engaging with potential guests.

Additionally, Business Gateway assisted with updating the business plan, reflecting the latest Visit Scotland statistics, current interest rates, and the economic climate. Nicola received guidance on financial reviews and secured funding for website development, branding, logo design, and social media communications support.

Nicola adds:

As a new business with limited marketing experience, the ongoing support and training from Business Gateway has been vital in our journey.

Conclusion

Lintmill Lodges is a testament to the power of well-directed business support combined with the dedication and vision of a young entrepreneur.

Nicola's vision, coupled with the expertise and resources from Business Gateway, ensures that Lintmill Lodges not only meets but exceeds guest expectations. With the picturesque village of Sorn as its backdrop, Lintmill Lodges offers a unique and luxurious glamping experience, that provides unforgettable memories for all who visit.

Utopia Computers and the Net Zero Nation Accelerator

At Utopia Computers, we always strive to be ahead of the curve, especially in adopting sustainable practices. Joining East Ayrshire Council's sponsored Net Zero Nation Accelerator was like finding a shortcut to mastering the art of carbon management.

It has fast-tracked our team's understanding of carbon terminology and language and given us the confidence to discuss our net-zero aspirations with clients and suppliers.

Support made the difference

We would not have taken this big step if it hadn't been for the Accelerator to be funded by the council. This crucial financial support allowed us to confidently dive into the programme, knowing we had the resources and expert guidance to fast-track our learning.

It lifted a significant barrier and empowered us to stay ahead of the curve regarding carbon measurement and reduction.

Valuable connections and unexpected opportunities

One of the best benefits we've experienced is the valuable connections we've made with like-minded businesses in our cohort. Working alongside other organisations equally committed to carbon reduction has been inspiring and even led to us securing new business with some of them, an unexpected but welcome bonus.

Milestones and momentum 

We're particularly excited about finalising our first Carbon Report, which will soon be published on our website. This report will serve as a cornerstone for conversations with our clients and suppliers, helping us refine our strategies and be transparent about our progress.

Ahead of the curve

The support from the Net Zero Nation Accelerator has helped us stay ahead of the curve compared to our competitors. We've been empowered to step up our carbon measurement and reduction game boldly. It reminds us of when we first joined the Living Wage movement, facing scepticism at the outset only to see it become a mainstream standard. Similarly, we think net zero practices will soon be the norm, and we're proud to lead this charge.

In summary, the Accelerator has been a game-changer for Utopia. It's given us the tools, network, and confidence to drive smarter carbon practices across our organisation, ensuring we're ready to help shape the net zero future.

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy method designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that has been found to be as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) while taking effect faster and being less distressing for the client.

There are few services offering this locally (most directories don’t find any) and clients report it is essentially inaccessible without travel to places like Glasgow. I wished to open a local service due to working with trauma regularly but required support to fund the training. 

Learn more about Progress Psychotherapy.

EMDR training and certification

50% of the training fees were received on 14 February 2024 from East Ayrshire Council (EAC) business grants and I undertook the training. Fitness to practice was granted on 3 May 2024 upon completion of the first part of the training.

Six individuals have received this treatment since then in the Ingram Enterprise Centre covering a range of traumas such as being first on scene to a death, road traffic accidents and various forms of abuse.

Clients report significant reductions in:

• distress
• flashbacks
• nightmares 
• anxiety with improvements to:

• • mood
  • social engagement
  • coping with returning to work
  • self-esteem

Many report that symptoms such as flashbacks are starting to fade away entirely. The venue at the Centre and the support to engage with the training have been essential. The first three clients are receiving their first six sessions free as I was able to take less from the business account due to receiving funding.

I will undergo further training and assessment across the year and (as long as the training provider hits the numbers to go ahead when planned) should have final certification in December. Thereafter, the EMDR service will be publicly marketed along with other therapeutic methods I offer (but anyone identified as in particular need before this will receive it).

Appreciation for local business support

I was moved to write this account to evidence how useful local business support is and express my gratitude for it. I began renting an office in the Ingram Centre in 2021. At that time there was a significant push to make remote therapy the default even after the pandemic for financial reasons.

Many of my clients, especially those who are more vulnerable, stated that this was not realistic for them. The feedback is that the office enables them to engage with mental health concerns in a way that feels safer and is more directly supported by me than a video or phone call could allow. The office being in Kilmarnock reduces both the financial and psychological barriers that come from travel.

Some may not be able to afford public transport to Glasgow on top of the session fee or their issues may make travel for any distance but local unrealistic until things improve. Services here in our community matter even more to the people most in need. 

Funding process 

EAC business support guided me through the funding process for half of the training fees. This helped the project in two ways.

Firstly, I could begin much sooner than having to raise the full amount. This means the service was operating much sooner than otherwise.

Secondly, the reduced expenses meant I could offer three individuals who have experienced trauma a block of EMDR sessions free. This helped me meet the practice requirement for final certification (successful treatment of at least three PTSD cases) and provided more accessible help for local people.

The support services that exist in East Ayrshire are excellent and were one of the factors that have enabled my practice to treat hundreds of people locally since 2019. 

Having a Carbon Reduction Plan by being part of the Net Zero programme has enhanced our brand reputation and given us an advantage when tendering for projects when we are up against similar companies, providing us with a unique selling point.

It also fits with our ethos of promoting sustainable furniture solutions to our clients. Cost savings have also been made by implementing energy efficiency measures in our company and allowed us to access funding and grants.

Learn more about Saxen Interior.

Since 2019, AD&CO has been providing thought-provoking branding and engaging digital media to clients throughout the UK.

As a small, progressive design studio, we collaborate with like-minded individuals and companies to deliver comprehensive brand management and visual communication services, helping businesses stand out in their markets.

From defining and launching brands to creating consumer-facing products, AD&CO covers it all.

AD&CO moves to the Ingram Enterprise Centre

In 2021, I moved the business to the Ingram Enterprise Centre. This strategic decision provided a dedicated studio space for client visits, networking with other businesses, and establishing a prominent presence in Kilmarnock town centre.

Ingram offered the perfect balance of professionalism, security, and business support. By leveraging the resources of the East Ayrshire Business Support team, AD&CO received training on business processes and enrolled in the Public Contract Scotland tender system.

After five successful years of continuous growth, AD&CO attributes part of this success to its presence at the Ingram Enterprise Centre.

In the past year, Curtainwise has recognised substantial benefits through our active engagement with the Net Zero Nation program. By aligning with its sustainability objectives, we've not only reduced our environmental impact but also enhanced operational efficiency and employee well-being.

Four-day work week

Transitioning to a four-day working week has not only reduced our factory's electricity and gas consumption but also eliminated unnecessary commuting for our employees on the fifth day, contributing to both cost savings and a reduction in carbon emissions.

LED lighting

Our commitment to energy efficiency is further evidenced by the installation of LED lighting throughout parts of our premises, as well as the incorporation of electric and hybrid vehicles into our fleet. Offering a preferential staff rate for electric vehicle charging underscores our dedication to supporting sustainable transportation alternatives.

Repurposing textile offcuts

Moreover, our initiative to repurpose textile offcuts, providing them to schools, craft groups, and sewing bees free of charge, demonstrates our commitment to waste reduction and community engagement, while also contributing to our goal of achieving zero textiles to landfill.

Conclusion

Participation in the Net Zero Nation program has not only catalysed tangible operational changes but has also sparked meaningful conversations among employees about sustainability. This heightened awareness has led to more conscientious decision-making across the organisation, fostering a culture of sustainability and driving further innovation.

Additionally, our proactive approach to supply chain management, evidenced by the switch to a more environmentally friendly bin supplier, has resulted in a significant decrease in emissions over the past year.

As we continue our journey towards sustainability, with 30% of our business travel now being green, Curtainwise remains committed to leveraging the resources and expertise provided by Net Zero Nation to drive ongoing progress and make a positive impact on our planet.

Housing Association contract 

Fortress won a contract with a Housing Association and upon seeking detailed feedback regarding our submission was informed that our response generally was excellent, detailed, and demonstrated a clear understanding of the Associations needs and priorities as it related to the services on offer. 

More specifically they remarked that the Sustainability section of our response was outstanding to the extent that there was not a score high enough on their scale to adequately convey how impressed they were with our Net Zero activity, reporting capabilities and impact statement (which I got Chat GPT to more or less produce). 

Whilst this particular question only equated to 5% of our total quality score it was nonetheless gratifying to hear that our response got us noticed.

Aynam Energy

Having engaged with Aynam Energy to produce a baseline energy audit we were then engaged by Aynam to carry out works at their premises.

Supply partner discount 

Obtained an additional 1% discount from one of our supply partners upon submission of our carbon accounts, our impact statement, and the Net Zero Nation report. The discount is worth around £3,000 to £4,000 per year.

Vodafone offer

Vodafone offered us preferential rates on our mobile phone package because we could produce carbon accounts. Granted it was largely a sales pitch on their part and we did not take them up on the offer as even with the discount they were terribly expensive.

In 2011, Sean Walls and his business partner opened The Optical Factory, which went on to win multiple awards for their commitment to offer the absolute best in customer care within the area. In 2015, they expanded their services to include hearing care. It was during this time that Sean discovered that his true passion was helping people transform their lives through improved hearing.

Sean became director of Kilmarnock Hearing Care Ltd in July 2020. With the help of SCMG, particularly Sandy and Martin through the BeReady programme, Sean and the team have managed to win numerous local tenders which has helped the business to grow.

Through the Community Wealth Building (CWB) officers and Growth advisers from the East Ayrshire Council (EAC) business support team, they have also been able to upgrade their local offices, adding further services, which has attracted a high number of new patients.

Support and projects have taken place over a period of time from July 2022 to Feb 2024.

Current State

Kilmarnock Hearing Care Ltd were made aware of the Ayrshire Growth Deal project (AGD) support through their dealings with the EAC business support team, which has allowed them to embark on their growth journey.

The project's success can be quantified through several key metrics:

• Increased Production - The new medical equipment and investment in clinics allowed Kilmarnock Hearing Care to assist more patients and support over run local GPs and Doctors surgeries within the area
• Time Savings - The reduction in time for seeing patients with the new hearing and audiology medical equipment has enabled the company to hire further local staff and see to more patients on a daily and weekly basis
• Financial Efficiency - Although the specific financial details (investment and savings) are not provided, the time savings and increased production capacity likely resulted in significant cost savings and revenue growth

The project was a collaborative effort:

• Kilmarnock Hearing Care Leadership - Sean Walls, Director. Key driver within all of the businesses projects and business growth
• Support from East Ayrshire Council - The local business support team provided grant support through the CWB fund – adviser Laurie Ross - which was crucial in facilitating the projects
• BeReady Programme - Utilising the support of SCMG – Sandy and Martin – Procurement Consultancy. This was vital for the business in order for them to understand Public Contract Scotland and how to tender for local contracts
• Fair Work Team - Allana McLachlan for facilitating the Fair Work Action plan for Sean at Kilmarnock Hearing Centre – helping support the business in becoming an employer of choice and also receiving accreditation for the Real Living Wage

Future State

Sean at Kilmarnock Hearing Care sees further opportunities for support from the AGD and plans to maintain ongoing engagement with EAC business officers going forward. This continued support is expected to drive sustained business growth, foster local community connections, and help achieve net-zero targets.

Regular updates on available support and networking opportunities and workshops will ensure Kilmarnock Hearing Care remains competitive and innovative in the evolving market landscape across not only EAC but further afield.

By investing in their clinics and in updated medical equipment it has shown that this is extremely important in supporting the business to keep energy costs low and growth further by increasing local staff members over the last two years. Not only is the business thriving but they are growing at a rapid pace and now have numerous branches opening across Scotland.

Quote from the director

Thanks to the advisers within EAC for supporting us through our applications for consultancy and CWB.  Business within Kilmarnock Hearing Centre has been really good. Our Kilmarnock clinic is as busy as ever and we have recently opened a clinic in Paisley, so things have been pretty full on.

I managed to win the tender that Sandy from SCMG helped me with through the BeReady Programme. I was contacted on 16th July to say we were the preferred bidder. This tender will be amazing for our business growth.

Craig had never attended an interview before and practiced interview scenarios and questions with Cheryl, our Supported Employment Job Coach.

Craig’s interview was really good and he answered all questions in detail. Craig was successful at interview and was offered the role.

Cheryl supported Craig in his role until he felt settled and was confident on his own and his line manager was happy Craig was managing to complete all tasks efficiently.

Craig has excellent reviews from his line manager, supervisor and colleagues and has not experienced any issues since he started. Craig hates being off work for the school holidays and counts down the days until he is back to work.

The Supported Employment team are so proud of everything Craig has achieved. Well done Craig!

A huge congratulations to Lewis Wallace who has been successful in gaining a Catering Modern Apprenticeship within East Ayrshire Council.

Lewis worked together with his Supported Employment Job Coach, Mags Withers, to apply and prepare for his interview. Lewis impressed the interviewer so much that he was offered the job on the spot!

Lewis has started his Modern Apprenticeship and is thriving, learning new skills and knowledge with the amazing support of the eating staff!

The Supported Employment team are so proud of everything Lewis has overcome and achieved within their time working with him and wish him all the best in the future.

John approached East Ayrshire Works and requested funding support for a qualification to assist him to take up a job offer of sustainable employment with another employer. John was working self-employed through various agencies and found himself on short contracts with periods of unemployment.

East Ayrshire Works were happy to support John with funding towards his HGV Class 2 licence, so he could achieve long-term work and stability.

John says:

Thanks to Sheila at East Ayrshire Works. If it wasn't for Sheila, this would never have happened. Thanks again.

We wish John well in his new career.

Congratulations to Lynsey Garrick who has recently gained a new post within her team as Senior Clerical Assistant.

Lynsey worked with her Supported Employment Job Coach, Cheryl Brown to apply for the post.  Lynsey was delighted but also really nervous when she found out she had gained an interview, she worked hard with Cheryl to prepare and practice some interview questions. Lynsey provided very good answers and was the successful applicant at interview. 

Lynsey has undertaken her new role with no issues and is sustaining well. 

Well done Lynsey for all your hard work!

Shannon Johnston is the owner of Shair by Shannon in Auchinleck and a new employer. She approached East Ayrshire Works enquiring about Wage Subsidy funding to support a new Trainee seeking to utilise her qualifications in Hairdressing.

Due to new trends and an increase in request for services, both Shannon and Morgan wanted to offer existing and new customers new and bespoke services in the area. Therefore both Trainee and Employer accessed funding to gain the 'HTS Certified Hair Extensions Specialist CPD Certification'.

Morgan says:

East Ayrshire Works has been absolutely brilliant! They have funded 100% of my training which is absolutely amazing as it has helped me in so many ways. With this I will be able to progress in building up my clientele. They have been so helpful and the process of it all has been very quick. Couldn’t recommend them more.