A BIRCHWOOD company has created 12 new jobs aimed at the young people in the town.

Webhelp UK, based on Daten Avenue, is making the positions as part of its nationwide skills initiative for young unemployed people.

Webhelp’s Customer Experience Academy (CEA) was designed to bring career opportunities to young people who are finding it difficult to reach the first step on the career ladder.

The CEA gives vital pre-employment training to a growing number of job seekers who lack the necessary communication skills or experience to pass the standard entrance level of most employers.

Now in its second phase, 43 new Webhelp staff have not only completed the five week work skills course at Webhelp’s Customer Experience Academy, but also the company’s interview process.

These individuals are now working full time by Webhelp UK, on standard terms and conditions, and supported through a 12-month modern apprenticeship.

Webhelp UK has employed 12 new CEA advisors at its Warrington site, 12 in Glasgow, 10 in Dearne Valley and nine in Derby as part of the second phase of the Customer Experience Academy programme.

Claire Croden, head of kearning innovation for Webhelp UK, said: “Webhelp’s Customer Experience Academy has gone from strength to strength since launching our pilot scheme earlier this year.

“Phase two of the initiative has attracted more than 40 new talented colleagues, who have already started a modern apprenticeship at our sites throughout the UK.

"Youth unemployment is a massive issue and more still needs to be done to create job opportunities. It’s great to be getting involved and playing our part in bringing employment to a part of our society which desperately needs it.

“I’m very proud that we’ve been able to turn the pilot Customer Experience Academy project into a nationwide campaign.”