CELTIC FC Foundation is delighted to announce that we have teamed up with BT Sport – The Supporters Club for our latest Gateway to Employment project. Thanks to the support of BT Sport customers, The Supporters Club has raised millions of pounds for charities that use sport to help disadvantaged young people.

In recent times, through a combination of tailored support and practical advice, Celtic FC Foundation’s hugely successful employability initiatives have given a growing number of young adults avenues back into the workplace.

Thanks to funding from The Supporters Club, Celtic FC Foundation are able to provide a wide range of employability support and physical activity sessions delivered here at Celtic Park  for even more young adults in Glasgow and the surrounding areas. The project supports 16-25 year olds from disadvantaged backgrounds and aims to address multiple and systemic barriers to employment.

Simon Green, Head of BT Sport, said: “The Supporters Club is a real force for good, with our BT Sport customers raising huge amounts of money to help young people in the UK and overseas. This initiative is a brilliant example of how the power of football provides life changing employment prospects for those experiencing difficult challenges.”

 The Supporters Club

From the outset, Celtic FC Foundation’s experienced employability advisor works one-to-one with participants and provides them with the tools they require to make positive changes to their lives.  Also during the 10-week project participants will be introduced to agencies with specialist opportunities, as well as a comprehensive itinerary including, work experience, qualifications and practical skills.

Celtic FC Foundation will also offer an insight into firefighter training at the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service training centre in Cambuslang.

Among the key benefits of this project, is the concerted focus on improving participants’ physical activity and well-being. With expert advice and one-to-one support being provided from Celtic FC Foundation’s coaching staff, the group will undergo a thorough and challenging fitness curriculum as well as detailed guidance on exercise, diet and nutrition and ultimately encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Tony Hamilton, CEO of Celtic FC Foundation, said: “One of our urgent priorities is tackling poverty and by addressing the issues which cause poverty – such as unemployment – we are better equipped to deal with the problem.

• “I am hugely grateful to BT Sport and The Supporters Club for backing us on this. We have tried and tested it and we have the right people and expertise in-house at Celtic Park to help many marginalised people.”