3:53pm Monday 28th April 2008
WARRINGTON youngsters have earned the royal seal of approval after completing a course to help them find work.
During the 12-week Prince's Trust programme, the group of five 17 and 18 year-olds packed shopping bags at Morrison's supermarket to raise £800 to transform a rubbish-strewn allotment into a garden for the disabled.
They also learned about first aid, disability awareness, interview techniques and sexual health as well as gaining recognised qualifications to increase their employability.
Natasha Hankinson, aged 17, has overcome various difficulties in life such as homelessness and unemployment and joined the programme in the hope that it could improve her confidence and CV.
She said: "I remained committed to the course for the whole 12 weeks and feel that I have become a more confident person who mixes better with others.
"I can't name even one thing that I didn't enjoy about this life changing experience."
Jamie Fletcher, aged 17, added: "It's been tough at times but we've all pulled through together."
The Prince's Trust Team programme supports unemployed 16-25 year olds who have struggled at school, have been in care or been in trouble with the law.
Team manager, Lee Lappin, added: "This team excelled from their very first day together and the standard of the presentation showed how their skills and confidence have vastly improved over three months.
"We are now recruiting for the next Warrington Team so anyone interested should call me on 0777 629 7881."
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.warringtonguardian.co.uk