One museum is playing its part to support young people, offering as many opportunities as possible to ensure they have plenty of experience of the working world.

Helping those who have been nicknamed Generation Covid, The Devil's Porridge Museum at Dumfries and Galloway has stepped up to keep young people optimistic about their futures.

Running its own in-house qualification scheme, the volunteer-run museum offers extended work experience placements, internships and training in all aspects of museum work.

And many have already benefitted, including digital marketing modern apprenticeship graduate Morgan Leggett, who recently completed a year-long course at the museum.

"We’ve really enjoyed having Morgan with us, and we’re delighted that he has successfully completed his apprenticeship,” Judith Hewitt, museum manager, said.

The proud graduate now runs the museum's website, online shop and social media.

Ms Hewitt continued: “We’ve also been really pleased to be able to offer placements for three local young people to complete their SVQ Level 3 in Museum Gallery Practice.

"This course is offered by Museums Galleries Scotland and is an exciting opportunity to learn and work in the Museums Sector.

“From Front of House and café work to behind the scenes research, collections and conservation care, we’re aiming to teach lots of practical skills with a recognised qualification being achieved at the end of each unit."

She added: “This qualification could be used to enhance UCAS applications, towards Duke of Edinburgh or Saltire Awards and will greatly enhance the employability of the young people involved.

"Plus, we hope it will be an enjoyable and interesting experience!”

The scheme is supported by the Holwood Trust, Dumfries and Gallow Council's Coastal Communities Fund, and Museums Galleries Scotland, and Ms Hewitt said, "none of this would have been possible" without their support.

"We hope opportunities such as this offer a little ray of light to our community in these uncertain times,” she said.

For more details, including how to take part in the museum's qualification scheme, email info@devilsporridge.org.uk, or call 01461 700021.