The awards showcase the achievements of people, organisations and businesses in Fife who provide employment for people with disabilities and health issues.

Billy Zima is the director of Identity Artworks in Scotland, a project which is supported by the Department for Work and Pensions and was used to help support former Remploy staff.

The ex-employees of the firm who were struggling with their redundancy were encouraged to attend the art course to help relieve stress, improve their quality of life and provide them with the confidence to embrace challenges ahead.

The people who attended worked on their timekeeping and teamwork, and also produced outstanding pieces of artwork.

It encouraged them to express themselves, uncover their potential and improve communication and presentation skills.

Plans are now underway to offer the course to people with mobility and mental health issues.

Fife Provost Jim Leishman said at the awards, which took place on 9th October, “Supported employment services are instrumental in ensuring that people with disabilities and health issues are given the encouragement, guidance and personalised support that they need to find and keep jobs, something that many of us take for granted.

“Fife can be rightly proud of the innovation and partnership working that goes on to achieve the success that we celebrate today.

“I’d also like to commend Fife’s employers who are providing work placement and paid jobs, breaking down barriers that prevent people with disabilities and health issues achieving their work goals.”