Jobs for the future

Oldham Council and a host of local employers are fighting back against the rise in youth unemployment across the borough by taking part in a £1 billion Government initiative to help young people back into work.

The Future Jobs Fund is aimed at people aged between 18-24 who have been out of work between 6 and 12 months.

Oldham Council and partners have pledged 506 placements which will take place in three waves over an 18-month period.

Each placement is funded for 6 months and aims to develop the trainee's skills and provide work-based training.

All positions are intended to provide a community benefit but a wide range of positions in both the public and private sectors are available. Positive Steps Oldham, one of the host employers involved in the scheme, have recently taken on around 10 trainees who are working in a variety of roles.

Marketing and Communications manager Nyree Hood said: "It's a big learning curve for trainees; they are learning key skills about professional conduct, time management and team working as well as office based skills."

Employees have a job description and are provided with support during their 6-month employment which could lead to a more long-term position.

The scheme aims to reduce youth unemployment in the borough while providing young people with key skills and contacts to help them in the future.

Local employers also benefit from additional workers who could develop into a key asset for their organization.

Oldham Council has already secured a host of job opportunities but is still looking for any additional employers who may fit the criteria and are able to support the programme.

If you think that you may be able to provide suitable opportunities for Future Jobs Fund trainees or would like to find out more information about the scheme, please contact Jennifer Wright at Oldham Council on 0161 770 4674.