The pilot project aims to both house and train the homeless

Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm was in Aberdeen on Monday for the launch of the Outside In pilot.

Residents at the Foyer centre will be encouraged to gain City and Guilds qualifications to help them find work.

Mr Chisholm said: "Everyone can benefit from learning new skills and I know that homeless people have often missed their chance to gain qualifications."

Outside In is a three-year pilot Scottish Executive-funded programme specifically tailored to the needs of homeless people.

'Improve lives'

The first of its kind in Scotland, it will benefit residents at Aberdeen Foyer, Edinburgh Cyrenians and Glasgow Simon Community, working in association with Aberdeen College, Stevenson College Edinburgh and the Glasgow College of Nautical Studies.

Mr Chisholm said at the launch: "I am delighted to be able to formally launch the Outside In project which I believe offers the opportunity to provide real education and training to young homeless people.

Malcolm Chisholm believes the project will help the homeless

"Such initiatives are an important part of the ongoing efforts to tackle and prevent homelessness and improve the lives of young people."

Jane Slowey, chief executive of the Foyer Federation, said: "The Foyer Federation is committed to providing opportunities for young people to build the skills and confidence they need to get back into learning or work.

"I am delighted that the Scottish Executive is supporting us in helping homeless people in Scotland to realise their potential."

Scottish National Party North East MSP Richard Lochhead said: "This is a fantastic initiative, and I congratulate the Foyer Federation on setting it up.