Blackburn with Darwen young people celebrate jobs boost
21 April 2008
A project to get more Blackburn with Darwen youngsters into Apprenticeships and Work Placements in the Public Sector has been celebrated as a huge success after 18 months in operation.
The Public Sector Apprenticeship Project was launched in July 2006 by Blackburn with Darwen Connexions in partnership with CXL. Financially supported by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, the project works with 16-18 year olds who are not in education, employment or training to help them find Apprenticeships and Placements with Public Sector employers such as Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Lancashire Constabulary and the NHS.
CXL’s Dawn Stead says the initiative has captured the imagination of both employers and young people:
“There’s been a tremendous take-up from Public Sector employers in the Borough, offering opportunities in a wide range of areas from Business Administration to Construction, Childcare to Catering and Finance to Gardening.
“The project has already helped more than 50 young people gain opportunities, which is great news all round: young people get the work experience and training they need, and the Public Sector gains fresh new skills and ideas: everyone stands to gain”.
Young people and employers from the project got together at King George’s Hall on 17th April to celebrate their achievements and to receive certificates of commendation for their involvement.
Pictured: The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Mrs Maureen McGarvey, celebrates with the young people at King George’s Hall