Employability in West Lothian
Harnessing the power of the third sector to support people into work, training, and volunteering.
At Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian (VSGWL), we believe the third sector is vital in helping people move towards and into employment.
As the local Third Sector Interface (TSI), we connect community organisations, charities and social enterprises with local employability services, funders, and employers — ensuring no one is left behind.
Our work supports Scotland’s No One Left Behind (NOLB) approach, helping build a joined-up, person-centred employability system rooted in local communities.
Why the Third Sector Matters
Third sector organisations support people who are often furthest from the labour market — offering wraparound, community-based support that builds confidence, skills, and wellbeing.
They contribute to employability by providing:
- Volunteering opportunities as first steps
- Skills development and accredited training
- Youth work, mentoring and positive role models.
- Health, wellbeing, and family support
- Advice, debt, and money guidance
- Digital and ESOL learning
- Supported work placements and sessional roles.
This early, holistic support complements statutory services like Access2Employment and Supported Employment, ensuring people get the help they need, when they need it.
West Lothian Third Sector Employability Forum
VSGWL coordinates the Third Sector Employability Forum to bring together local third sector organisations involved in employability and community support.
The forum provides space to:
- Share updates, resources, and good practice.
- Build relationships and referral routes.
- Identify gaps and opportunities.
- Feed into local and national employability strategy.
The Forum is currently chaired by Alan McCloskey (Interim Chair).
Join the Forum
If your organisation supports people into work, volunteering, or training, we’d love you to join us.
Volunteering and Employability
Volunteering is more than an act of service — it is also a pathway to professional growth. By taking part in volunteer opportunities, individuals gain valuable experience, strengthen transferable skills, and build networks that directly enhance employability.
Skills gained through volunteering — such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving — are highly regarded by employers across all sectors.
See the Latest Volunteering Opportunities
Useful Links
Local Employability Partnership (LEP)
The West Lothian LEP brings together local partners from the council, business, education, health, and the third sector to shape the area’s employability landscape. They meet every two months to put their shared vision into action.
West Lothian Council – Employability Information
Employment advice services available including Access2Employment
A2E Vacancy Bulletin – Local Job Opportunities
Access2Employment’s fortnightly Vacancy Bulletin shares local jobs, training, workshops, and employment support.
Get in Touch
For more information, please contact our Employability Officer, Liyan Adnan.
