Young people helped into employment by scheme

A CAMPAIGN has helped young people in Bewsey and Whitecross find work and training.

The joint project by Warrington Borough Council and Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) was launched in August after figures showed the area had high levels of young people Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET).

There were 63 people classed as NEET six months ago across that area but now the figure has dropped to 25.

GGHT created a variety of schemes to help youngsters get ready to work including a programme created with the Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation.

Those signed up were guaranteed interviews with employers, who were offered a wage subsidy scheme.

Aron Smith, aged 19, is one of those who has benefited.

Aron said: “I was quite nervous at first but so was everyone else. It wasn’t boring and we did loads of different stuff and went to different places almost every day.

“The advisers helped me with my CV and gave us advice about interviews. I gained confidence and at the end I got an interview with GGHT for a paid placement, which is where I am now. GGHT have continued to help me since I started and I am confident that the experience I have gained will help me get a permanent job very soon.”

So far seven young people have found a job.

Clr Hitesh Patel, executive member for children and young people’s services, said: “This kind of joined up working helps to identify the most appropriate route forward for our most vulnerable young people and is key to helping them find training and employment opportunities.”

GGHT’s chairman, Roy Smith, added: “It is great to see such positive outcomes from the work that our employment team and partners have put in to support young people in Bewsey and Dallam.”

Visit warrington.gov.uk/careers foryoungpeople.