Debbie Alexander – CEO of CHAP

This will enable CHAP to expand its current collaboration with North Ayrshire Council to deliver comprehensive financial education workshops in secondary schools. The money will also allow CHAP to pilot new initiatives, designed to help young people across the region raise aspirations and reach their full potential.

North Ayrshire Council Leader, Councillor Marie Burns said: “Tackling poverty is one of the main priorities for North Ayrshire Council and working with our partners such as CHAP is key to helping improve the lives of our residents. The funding from the Robertson Trust is welcome news indeed.

“Instilling confidence in our young people to better understand finances as they approach adulthood is fundamental and I welcome the news that the funding will be used to expand education programmes in our local schools to improve outcomes.”

The goal is to help students build critical life skills over time, ensuring that the practical knowledge gained is effectively retained and applied for long-term benefit.

CHAP’s education officer Robin Ballantyne said: “This generous funding will bolster CHAP’s current involvement in secondary education, allowing us to deliver more frequent and in-depth workshops for pupils on essential topics such as financial literacy, savings, budgeting, and avoiding debt.”

With this funding, CHAP will:

• Expand its involvement in schools, offering more frequent and comprehensive sessions to engage pupils and develop their financial skills progressively.
• Increase student participation by delivering regular, hands-on workshops that reinforce key financial concepts, ensuring learning is retained and embedded for lasting impact.
• Extend activities to younger pupils, reaching those from S1 to S6 to build a strong foundation during key transitional phases of their lives.
• Work closely with schools to support non-attenders, providing tailored interventions in alternative learning environments to help break down barriers and encourage re-engagement with education.

This funding also allows CHAP to continue its partnership with Greenwood Academy and North Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development team on the Mount Project, which supports disengaged pupils. Through the project, students can earn Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) certificates and participate in practical skills training, such as barista workshops, to help build their confidence and enhance employability opportunities.

Debbie Alexander, CEO, added: “This funding enables us to pilot a two-pronged approach to further develop and grow our educational programmes.

“By expanding our reach and engaging with pupils of all ages, we’re empowering young people with the financial skills and knowledge they need for future success. Thanks to The Robertson Trust, we look forward to making an even greater impact on young lives across North Ayrshire.”

CHAP remains committed to delivering a better standard of living for local communities, and this award will play an essential role in advancing that mission.