PACE Event Supported by Perthshire Chamber with Local Business Input

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce expresses sympathy and concern following the closure of Dundee-based social enterprise Dovetail Enterprises, which has entered administration resulting in the loss of 47 jobs. The Chamber is particularly concerned for the affected employees—many of whom are individuals with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds—and acknowledges the significant impact this will have on the broader Tayside region, including Perth and Perthshire.

Recognising the challenges these employees now face, PACE (Partnership Action for Continuing Employment) has organised a support event on Friday, 4th April at Marryat Hall, Dundee, from 10:00 to 13:00 and Perthshire Chamber will be one of the supporters in attendance. 

To further assist those affected, the Chamber is reaching out to its members and the wider business community to identify potential job opportunities that could be shared at the PACE event. Employers with vacancies are encouraged to get in touch by emailing info@perthshirechamber.co.uk.

PACE is a Scottish Government initiative designed to support individuals facing redundancy by providing tailored advice, skills development, and job-seeking assistance. It is led by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) in partnership with other agencies such as DWP, ACAS Scotland, Citizens Advice Scotland, Business Gateway (and many more) to ensure those affected receive comprehensive support. The Chamber will be present alongside other organisations to offer assistance and share relevant job opportunities from local businesses.

“This is devastating news for the dedicated team at Dovetail, many of whom face additional barriers to employment,” said Vicki Unite, Chief Executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce. “Our thoughts are with all the employees and their families. Dovetail Enterprises has been a cornerstone of inclusive employment in Tayside for over a century, and its loss will be felt deeply across Dundee, Perth, and the wider region. We must all come together to support those affected and ensure opportunities for them in the future.”

Founded in 1865, Dovetail Enterprises is a roughly 150-year-old furniture and bedding manufacturer renowned for providing training and jobs to disabled and disadvantaged members of society. The Chamber highlighted that Dovetail’s historical importance goes beyond its products—it exemplified inclusive employment in action. This model of inclusion remains crucial in Scotland, where only about half of disabled adults are in work, compared to around 81% of non-disabled adults. The closure of such a longstanding supported employer is therefore not just a loss of 47 jobs, but a setback for social inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

Media Contact:
Vicki Unite, Chief Executive, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 01738 448325 | Email: vicki@perthshirechamber.co.uk

PACE Tayside

Skills Development Scotland

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT