£1bn to tackle jobless youth

BUSINESSES and young people in Greater Manchester are to benefit from a new £1 billion youth contract.

Today sees the official launch of the Government scheme, through which 18 to 24 year olds will now receive extra support from Jobcentre Plus to give them an edge in the labour market.

They’ll have greater opportunities to take part in things like work experience, sector-based work academies, and apprenticeships.

Oldham Jobcentre is among 700 across the UK to hold an open day tomorrow so local businesses can find out how they benefit from getting involved.

Businesses can get a payment of up to £2,275 for any young adult they employ, currently taking part in the Work Programme. This is in addition to a £1,500 grant currently available to those employers who take on their first apprentice.

Employment Minister Chris Grayling said: “Over 34,000 young people have already benefited from voluntary work experience, giving them vital skills and experience in the workplace.

“There are signs of success — half of the earliest participants were off benefits 13 weeks after starting.”

Oldham Jobcentre’s open day takes place between noon and 2pm. Anyone unable to attend can register their interest online at: www.dwp.gov.uk/youth-contract or phone an adviser on 0845-601 2001.

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