Weekly update - 23 January 2012
This week's update focuses on the Council's recession-busting employment scheme for young people. There are currently 442 18 to 24 year olds who have been unemployed for up to nine months in Reigate & Banstead.
The Council is making an impact on youth employment. This month 21 young people were recruited onto the second round of our Young Workers Scheme. They are from a variety of backgrounds including graduates to the long term unemployed.
Young Workers Scheme
Our 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, Refuse & Recycling, Parking, Property Services and Legal.
Life changing opportunity
The scheme has proven to be a life changing opportunity. Some of the successes of past recruits include:
- starting a two year apprenticeship with the Council
- successfully applying for a job with the Council
- local business job opportunity through help from the Council
- starting a job with a local company
- having their contract extended
- returning to university.
Visit our Young Workers Scheme page to read some of their stories.
Supporting economic growth 
“Providing opportunities for local young people to gain experience and skills is crucial to supporting economic growth,” said John Jory, Chief Executive. “Our aim is to lead the way in our borough by helping young people find their feet on the employment ladder.
“Youth unemployment is a huge topic in the UK. We are delighted that Employment Minister and MP, Chris Grayling visited us to give his backing to our scheme earlier this month.”
Quick facts
- 21: the average age of our young workers
- 41 young workers have been recruited to date – and more will join us in February
- £60,000: the Council’s investment in the scheme since May 2011.
Everyone benefits
As well as the benefits of employment and development for young people, they have added value to our organisation. For example, the young workers who were placed in our Parks and Countryside team helped us to win a national award through their hard work and dedication.
Investing in young people 
“At a time when other public sector organisations are making cuts, the Council is investing in helping local young people to succeed,” said Councillor Ros Mill, Executive Member for Strong Communities.
“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.”
Weekly update by email
If you would like to receive this update by email each week contact weeklyupdate@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
Last updated : 23/01/2012
