News

Graduates from the most recent block of the Foundation’s CashBack for Communities – Towards New Futures programme took on Police Scotland today in a friendly football match as the CashBack Trophy fixture was contested at the Ibrox Community Complex (ICC).

After an engrossing 90 minutes, and some fantastic goals from both sides, the participants enjoyed an award ceremony followed by food and refreshments alongside staff from Police Scotland.

The CashBack team, formed of course participants and Foundation staff, triumphed against the Police and retained the trophy following a 5-1 victory at the ICC.

The Foundation’s Cashback For Communities – Towards New Futures programme aims to re-engage people aged 16-24 with experience of the criminal justice system and helps them move towards a positive destination including working, training or further education.

It is delivered in partnership with four Scottish prisons and a range of key community and industry partners, including Police Scotland.

Zander Carruth, Cashback Coordinator for the Foundation said:

“The game isn’t about the result, it highlights the importance of the relationship Police Scotland have with our young people. It’s been fantastic to have Keiran Trayner and his colleagues from the Community Policing Team in Govan in to deliver to the group during this block and I’m sure every participant has come away with a different understanding of the Police.

“It’s important that we give Police Scotland the opportunity to break down barriers with local young people and at the same time, give the participants to engage with the Police in a different way that they might be used to.

“The football match vs Police Scotland is always one of the highlights of each course and today was another fantastic day to come together with one of our key partner organisations.”

“I’m delighted to say that every single young person that we engaged with over the course of this block is now moving onto a positive destination with additional qualifications on their CV.”

Police Constable, Keiran Trayner, added:

“It’s been fantastic to have been involved with this excellent programme over the past eight weeks.”

“Zander, Callum and the wider Foundation team have been great and given us the opportunity to reach more local young people through our Pitchin’ In programme.”

“Our partnership work was also highlighted in a great case study published earlier this year and showcases the positive impact that early intervention can have when aiming to rehabilitate young people at risk of involvement with the criminal justice system.”

Each CashBack participant takes part in a structured timetable that blends learning, physical activity, and personal growth. For example, participants complete accredited fitness and coaching sessions, attend a Mental Health First Aid course, and gain hands-on work experience.

In addition, because the Foundation is an SQA Centre, every participant has the chance to earn SQA qualifications and certifications. These achievements build confidence and improve employability.

Furthermore, the programme doesn’t stop when the eight weeks end. Ongoing one-to-one support helps graduates stay motivated and continue progressing into training, education, or employment. As a result, participants are better prepared for sustainable positive futures.

The programme is open to young people aged 16–24 who have experience of the criminal justice system or previous convictions. Importantly, no previous qualifications are needed.

Moreover, the course is completely free of charge, ensuring that financial circumstances never become a barrier to participation. Everyone is welcome, regardless of background or location.

CashBack for Communities is a unique Scottish Government programme which takes funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and invests them into community programmes, facilities and activities aimed at diverting young people at risk away from potentially criminal or anti-social behaviour.

The next free eight-week course starts on 19^th January 2026. To register or find our more, email: zandercarruth@rangers.co.uk