GCP Young Members

Become a Young Member

We know that being a young adult can be a time of change. You might be thinking about what you want to do next, looking for work or learning, wanting to meet new people, or simply looking for somewhere you feel comfortable and welcome.

Our Young Members Programme is for people aged 16–30 who live in or near Edinburgh. We provide a friendly, supportive place where you can meet people, try new things, build confidence and develop skills. You don’t need to know exactly what you want to do when you join. We can help you explore your interests and find opportunities that work for you.

Our approach starts with getting to know you, building relationships and finding out what you’re interested in. You can take part in activities with other young people, learn new skills, study for qualifications, volunteer or get practical work experience across GCP.

If you’re ready, we can also support you to take your next step towards work, further learning or employment. We know that everyone starts from a different place, so we work at your pace and focus on what you can do and what you’d like to achieve.

There’s no single route through the programme. You choose what you want to get involved in, at a level and pace that works for you. You might start with ‘Oot the Box’ (Our weekly young memebrs social and soft skills group) or another GCP activity, then try volunteering, learning or work experience when you’re ready. Or you might already know what you want to do and need some support to get there.

There’s no pressure to do everything. You can start where you’re comfortable, then try something new and see where it takes you.

What can you get involved in?

Oot the Box
Our dedicated young members group, offering informal, experiential learning, social activities and opportunities to meet other young people, try new things and build confidence.

Learning Hub
Access to online learning and accredited courses, including opportunities through Flick Learning, Open University, Virtual College and other learning providers. We can help you find courses that match your interests, goals and starting point.

Employability & skills development
Support to develop the practical skills and confidence needed for work, including employability essentials sessions, goal setting, CV and job-search support, and opportunities to learn more about different careers and industries.

Volunteering & work experience
Get practical experience across GCP’s social enterprises and services, including our kitchens and cafés, Tartan production and shop, woodworking, reception and events. These opportunities can help you develop workplace skills, build experience for your CV and explore different types of work.

Pre-apprenticeships
For young people who are ready for a more structured employment pathway, we offer 6-month paid pre-apprenticeships in areas including kitchen, café, Tartan and woodworking. These combine practical work experience, learning, mentoring and individual support, with a focus on helping you move towards a positive next step.

Your next step

Whether you want to meet people, try something new, gain a qualification, develop your skills, volunteer, get work experience or work towards employment, we’ll support you to find the opportunities that are right for you. Our Young Members services are led by Rob Stack, Learning & Development Coordinator – Get in touch for more information. [email protected]

As a Young Member, you can also access GCP’s Members Programme, with a wide range of free weekly activities and the option to join us for a free, two-course lunch. There’s no commitment to attend every week or take part in any particular activity — come along when it suits you, try something new and grow in your own way.