West End Extra - LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Published: 21 August 2009
Programme for work
• UNEMPLOYMENT figures released by the Office for National Statistics are a stark reminder of the tough economic times many residents and businesses are going through.
In particular, with the dramatic rise in youth unemployment, many school leavers may be worried about finding their first job.
Local authorities, however, can and should play a key role in helping people into training or work during the recession through apprenticeships and job creation schemes.
In Westminster, we are investing more than £1million to help almost 3,000 people secure a job under the Westminster Works programme.
Those that sign up to the programme will be able to take advantage of CV and interview services, childcare or specialist financial advice.
Under this scheme, we are also working directly with local employers to generate a range of opportunities from six-month job placements to two-week job trials.
Westminster has also helped to establish the London Apprenticeship Company, a not-for-profit company which will train more than 1,000 16 to 25-year-olds to help them begin work in small and medium-sized companies.
For information on Westminster Works call 0207 575 3113 or see www.westminster.gov.uk/services/jobsandcareers/westminsterworks/ and for apprenticeships visit www.londonapprentice ship.co.uk
Cllr Brian Connell
Cabinet Member for Economic Development & Family Policy
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