Council gives 21 young people a foot on the employment ladder
Twenty-one young people have been given a foot on the employment ladder as the Council launched its second Young Workers Scheme alongside Employment Minister, Chris Grayling MP.
Mr Grayling addressed local businesses and organisations at the event to speak about youth employment in today’s economic climate.
Since May, the Council has recruited 41 young workers and the scheme is now set to continue as a rolling opportunity.
Recession-busting scheme
The recession-busting scheme creates an opportunity for local 18 to 24 year olds who have been out of work for six months or more, by equipping them with the skills, confidence and experience needed for the jobs market.
The scheme offers a six month contract to work in a variety of Council departments including Human Resources, Housing, Environmental Health, Grounds Maintenance, Cemeteries, Refuse & Recycling, Streetscene, Parking, Building & Development, Customers, ICT, Legal, Policy & Regeneration and Property Services.
Recruits
The new recruits are from a variety of backgrounds, including graduates to the long term unemployed.
Putting skills into practice
Speaking on her first day, Katrina Bray, aged 23 from Merstham, is working with the Park’s Grounds Maintenance team: “I’m nervous, but looking forward to meeting people and getting involved with the work. I did Habitat Management at Merrist Wood College and got experience at Horton Country Park so I want to put my skills into practice and work outdoors.”
Window for your future
Law graduate Glen Dhurowa, aged 23 from Redhill, is working with the Legal team: “I want to fulfil my dream of becoming a solicitor. I’ve had experience at different solicitor firms and was unemployed for 18 months. It feels special to have this rare opportunity. This scheme gives people a window for their future.”
Successes
Some of the young people’s successes from the first scheme include:
- starting a two year apprenticeship with the Council
- successfully applying for a job with the Council
- being offered a job opportunity with a local business through help from
the Council - starting a job with a local company
- having their contract extended
- returning to university.
Investing in helping young people to succeed
Councillor Ros Mill, Executive Member for Strong Communities, said: “At a time when other public sector organisations are making cuts, this Council is investing in helping local young people to succeed. We care and want to give them a spring board in life.
“Our Young Workers Scheme has proven to be a life changing opportunity for those who have taken part - one even said it has been the best experience of his life.
“We are encouraging other local employers to join us with similar schemes and offer opportunities to young people. We would like to support them to participate so that the benefits to the borough are even higher.
“I wish every one of the new recruits the very best of luck.”
Last updated : 16/01/2012
