About Launchpad Borders
We believe everyone deserves a chance to move forward
Launchpad is a free, person-centred employability and personal development service for people aged 16+ in the Scottish Borders.
Our mission
Progress, not pressure
Launchpad exists to support people who are some distance from employment, education or training — and who would benefit from building confidence, identifying their strengths and gaining a clearer sense of direction before taking their next steps.
We take a person-centred approach. That means we start with you — your circumstances, your strengths, your goals — and we work at your pace. There's no pressure, no judgement, and no one-size-fits-all programme.
Whether you're dealing with barriers to employment, feeling stuck, or simply not sure what you want to do next, Launchpad is here to help you find your way forward.
What guides us
Our values
Everything Launchpad does is shaped by these core principles.
Person-centred
Everything we do starts with the individual. We listen first, then support.
Non-judgemental
We meet people where they are, without assumptions or conditions.
Strengths-based
We focus on what you can do, not what you can't. Everyone has strengths.
Inclusive
Launchpad is open to everyone aged 16+ in the Scottish Borders, regardless of background.
Collaborative
We work alongside participants, partners and the wider community to create lasting change.
Empowering
Our goal is to build independence and confidence, not dependency on support.
Meet the team
The people behind Launchpad
Launchpad is delivered by a small, dedicated team who are passionate about supporting people in the Scottish Borders to reach their potential.
Cara McDermott
Launchpad Co-ordinator
Cara leads the day-to-day delivery of the Launchpad programme, working directly with participants and referral partners across the Scottish Borders. She brings warmth, expertise and a genuine commitment to helping people move forward at their own pace.
The Launchpad programme
What you'll learn — and how
Launchpad is a structured but flexible programme delivered in small groups. Sessions are interactive, practical and designed around the people in the room — not a fixed curriculum.
What the programme covers
Understanding yourself
Explore your strengths, values, interests and personal circumstances. Build a clearer picture of who you are and what matters to you.
Building confidence
Develop self-belief and resilience through practical activities, group discussion and one-to-one support.
Setting goals
Identify what you want from life and work, and start to map out realistic, meaningful steps towards it.
Skills for life and work
Develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills that employers value — and that help in everyday life too.
Exploring your options
Look at employment, education, training and volunteering opportunities. Understand what's available and what might suit you.
Planning your next steps
Leave with a clear, personal action plan and the confidence to follow it — with ongoing support available as you move forward.
How you'll learn
Launchpad is delivered in small groups — which means you'll learn alongside others in a similar position, share experiences, and build connections as well as skills. Sessions are relaxed, supportive and practical. There's no classroom pressure, no exams, and no one-size-fits-all approach.
Find us near you
Where we run
Galashiels
Central Scottish Borders
Sessions run regularly in Galashiels, making Launchpad accessible to people across the central Scottish Borders.
Hawick
South Scottish Borders
We also deliver Launchpad in Hawick, ensuring people in the south of the Borders can access support close to home.
Not sure which location is right for you? Get in touch and we'll help you find the best option.
Part of something bigger
Part of something bigger
Launchpad is delivered by Recovery Coaching Scotland — a lived experience organisation rooted in the belief that people with lived experience of adversity are uniquely placed to support others. We are also a proud member of the Borders Local Employability Partnership, working alongside partner organisations across the Scottish Borders to ensure people get the right support at the right time.
Recovery Coaching Scotland
recoverycoachingscot.org
Borders Local Employability Partnership
scotborders.gov.uk
For more information about Recovery Coaching Scotland or the Borders Local Employability Partnership, please get in touch.
Get in touch
We'd love to hear from you
Whether you're thinking about joining Launchpad, want to refer someone, or just have a question — fill in the form below or reach us directly.
Launchpad Borders leaflet
Download and share our leaflet to find out more about what Launchpad offers — ideal for sharing with friends, family, or anyone who might benefit from our support.
Want to find out more?
Whether you're thinking about joining Launchpad yourself, or you'd like to refer someone, we'd love to hear from you.