Personal Development

We are committed to the principles of Investors in People. That means that we actively encourage our members of staff to realise their full potential.

We believe in equipping our workforce with learning and development opportunities to match their expectations.

We have an active professional development programme that includes SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification), HNC (Higher National Certificate) and Management Charter Initiative qualifications amongst other opportunities.

"The Association invests in training that benefits staff and tenant alike. As important as the functional aspect of training - teaching and developing skills - it helps reinforce the ethos of Margaret Blackwood as a progressive and caring organisation committed to the highest standards."
Jeremy Hewer, Projects Manager

"Computers have fundamentally changed the ways in which we communicate and I have to master an ever-increasing range of skills to remain effective. The Association gives me great training support ..."
Paul Leighton, Marketing & Communications Officer

When last reassessed for our Investor in People accreditation, some of the comments from staff members passed on to us by the assessors were...

"If it wasn't for this organisation I would still be a domestic. They have encouraged me all the way."
Support Worker, Care Services

"I have just finished an HNC in Care. I was the only student where the organisation paid the whole cost of the course."
Support Worker, Care Services

"I have started to supervise staff so the Association has organised a two day course for me to gain relevant management skills."
Anon

"The Association's appraisal system allows feedback from my manager and the competencies allow me to home in on the skills I need."
Anon

"Through my own development I have now been able to take on some of the duties of my manager."
Anon

"The first three days (of induction training) covered all aspects of the job. I then had two weeks' job shadowing and regular reviews at the first, third and fifth month to check my understanding."
Anon

"I was invited to come and meet the staff before I started working here. I had a friendly, informal introduction with everyone. My induction included time in all departments and Department Heads were very supportive."
Anon