Make a mark as Labour apprentice

Labour launch new scheme to encourage young people in Oldham to get involved in local politics (from the left) Iain McNicol (General Secretary of the Labour Party), Cllr Amanda Chadderton, Dr Shaid Mushtaq, Cllr Arooj Shah, Cllr Sean Fielding, Samaira Anjum, Chantel Birtwistle, Cllr Jim McMahon (Leader) and Cllr Shoab Akhtar (Deputy Leader).

A GROUNDBREAKING scheme to encourage more young people to get involved in local politics was launched by Labour Party General Secretary Iain McNicol and Oldham councillors yesterday.

The Labour Apprentice scheme will give a group of young people the opportunity to work on local campaigns alongside the party and shadow senior councillors and MPs to gain an understanding of the responsibilities of elected office.

The 12-month programme will be open to all young Oldham residents who share the party’s values and would vote for them at elections.

They will also study for the Labour Councillor Diploma and will be provided with a mentor to support their future political ambitions at the end of the scheme.

Mr McNicol said: “We are always looking for candidates with three specific qualities — enthusiasm, core values and leadership skills.

“This is a fantastic idea to provide a great training opportunity for young people who share our values to become more involved in local politics.

“We want to show that people really can make a difference.”

The closing date for the scheme is Wednesday, March 20. Applications should be made to Phil Gaul via e-mail on labourlinkunison @aol.co.uk or by calling 07773-155 595.

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