Social Work staff and representatives from Police Scotland, NHS, Housing and third sector gathered at Gartlea Community Centre in Airdrie for North Lanarkshire Council’s Justice Social Work Conference.

Four local companies have been recognised for high standards of excellence with accreditation from North Lanarkshire Council’s Employer Charter.

A rise in employment levels, an increase in large company numbers and a burgeoning construction sector are driving a bright future for businesses in North Lanarkshire.

A ground-breaking £1 million fund will provide emergency support for existing tenants who have fallen behind on their rent payments.

Councillor Jim Logue, leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said: “On the face of it today’s budget announcement appears to do little to bridge our estimated £60million budget gap over the next three years.