Inverness-based cafe improves employability options for a range of people

A digital café for homeless people in the Highlands has won the coveted Digital Dynamo award at the Scottish Charity Awards 2016.

The Libertie Project Limited works with vulnerable people in partnership with local criminal and community justice providers.

Women-led, it combines digital skills with innovative arts and crafts activities to help ex-offenders build employability skills and reduce offending.

The café provides online basics and skills to improve employability as well as being a place where individuals can access other support services.

"We're totally chuffed to have won an award and a wee bit humbled that our micro social enterprise in the Highlands has been recognised for the work we do to help others,” said Liberty Bligh from the charity.

“It might sound simple but we believe if you see a need, you should meet a need, no bells and whistles, just a splash of creativity and a real impact.

“And none of this would have been possible without the dedication and commitment from our staff, volunteers and the people we support in and out of prison."

Shulah Allan, convener of Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), which organises the awards, added: “I’m in awe of all the finalists and winners.

"Thanks to their efforts, more people in Scotland are receiving the support they need when they need it and we’re all more aware of important issues, and causes, which affect vulnerable people, and us all.”