FIRST Minister John Swinney has been made aware of funding issues affecting the Usual Place cafe in Dumfries.
Colin Smyth MSP raised the matter in the Scottish Parliament, pointing out the benefits of the organisation, which offers employment and training to young people with disabilities and additional support needs.
He said: “I know that the First Minister is familiar with the project. Will he make a commitment that the Government and its agencies will urgently consider what support they can give to avoid the proposed redundancies at The Usual Place?”
In reply, John Swinney said he was concerned to read about the challenges being faced and added he is “committed to making sure that we do all that we can to support The Usual Place, subject to all the normal processes that we have to go through. I give the company my commitment that I will encourage and motivate our agencies to make sure that they do exactly that”.
Afterwards, Mr Smyth said: “I am pleased the issue is being taken seriously by the First Minister and I will continue to do everything I can to support the Usual Place.”
