The Third Sector Human Rights and Equalities project will see staff working in Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Highlands.
A group of third sector interfaces have launched a new project which will work to develop resources, training and networks for voluntary organisations across Scotland.
Third Sector Human Rights and Equalities (THRE) is a new nationwide project led by Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector (GCVS) in partnership with Highland Third Sector Interface (HTSI) and Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations' Council (EVOC).
The initiative will look to support third sector organisations towards taking a human rights and equalities first approach to their organisational development and delivery.
The project will also be helping to equip organisations and individuals with the skills to champion human rights and equalities, allowing the sector as a whole to challenge inequality and make a positive difference.
THRE aims to act as a bridge connecting Scotland’s innovative and thriving third sector to the country’s existing internationally recognised human rights and equalities sector.
The goal is to help deliver the Scottish Government’s vision for a Scotland that is inclusive, free from discrimination, and where the human rights of everyone are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
Ian Bruce, chief executive of GCVS, said: “Human rights and equalities can and should be central to the way we approach our work and development as organisations.
“Intermediaries such as Scotland’s TSIs are uniquely well placed to support the third sector towards this goal.
“We are proud to be leading this new partnership project alongside EVOC and HTSI to help drive change and further embed a culture of taking a human rights and equalities first approach.”
The project has staff based in Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Highlands, working with their local TSIs to give the project national reach combined with a local understanding of the needs of the third sector.
THRE is funded by The Scottish Government Equality and Human Rights Fund - managed by Inspiring Scotland.
Mhairi Wylie, chief officer of HTSI, said: “We know the Third Sector across Scotland are keen to engage with and develop their approach to human rights and equalities.
“Ensuring that organisations have access to guidance, support and information, regardless of where they are within Scotland, is a critical part of ensuring our rural and remote communities can engage and develop to meet the needs of our increasingly diverse communities.”
Ian Brooke, deputy chief executive EVOC, added: “We are looking forward to working with Scotland’s thriving Third Sector to further grow its approach to human rights and equalities.
“We will support organisations, whether they are experienced or taking their first steps towards making human rights and equalities a part of how they grow, develop and deliver as an organisation.
“We will be working with the project partners to connect people to the great work and support already on offer, as well as creating and providing our own.”
