Supporting 1,000 young people and counting: the growing impact of the Wee Bursary

The Wee Bursary has reached an important milestone, supporting its 1,000th young person across Glasgow.

As one of the programme's funders, the Hymans Robertson Foundation is proud to celebrate this achievement alongside FARE, referral partners, frontline workers and the many organisations that have helped make it possible. Together, they have created opportunities for young people to overcome barriers, build confidence and take positive steps towards education, employment and training.

Since 2023, the programme has supported more than 1,000 young people and grown into a network of 93 nominating workers and 51 referral partners across Glasgow. What began with a small number of partners has evolved into a collaborative programme that connects young people with practical support when they need it most.

For Pauline Wilson, Secondary School Lead at FARE Scotland and a key figure in the programme's development, the milestone represents far more than a number.

That growth has been driven by strong partnerships and a commitment to listening to young people and the workers supporting them. Over the years, the Wee Bursary has helped young people access everything from clothing and equipment to educational opportunities, wellbeing support and training, giving them the tools and confidence to move forward.

One story that stands out is that of a young woman preparing to start college. As the first person in her family to pursue further education, she struggled with confidence and felt she didn't belong. Through the Wee Bursary, she received support to buy clothing for her placement.

What seemed like a simple purchase had a much deeper impact. The support helped her walk into a new environment feeling confident and prepared, giving her the belief that she belonged there and could succeed. It was a small intervention that helped open the door to opportunities that may otherwise have felt out of reach.

Stories like this demonstrate the wider impact of the programme. While the bursary provides practical financial support, it also relieves pressure on families, helps young people feel included, and creates opportunities that can shape their future.

The programme continues to evolve alongside the changing needs of young people. A recent partnership with LifeLink now provides access to counselling support for young people aged 16 and over, offering timely mental health support and reflecting the programme's commitment to listening and adapting.

Reflecting on the programme's success, Pauline believes its greatest strength lies in the relationships built along the way.

As the Wee Bursary celebrates supporting its 1,000th young person, the Hymans Robertson Foundation is proud to have played a part in its journey. More importantly, it is a chance to recognise the young people, workers, partners and funders whose collective efforts continue to create opportunities and open doors across Glasgow.