Exciting job opportunities for care leavers (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Young people gain new qualifications and jobs, thanks to pioneering scheme

12:50pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

GIFTED young people who have been in care are embarking on new careers, thanks to a pioneering project.

Halton Council has teamed up with partners to provide full time traineeships for young people aged 16-21, who are in or have left the care of the local authority.

The Children and Enterprise Training Scheme has taken on 10 young people who now work in children’s centres, Altered Images hair salon, Adult Day Services, Halton Stadium, CRMZ youth centre and HBC Garage and Environmental Services, Clr Marie Wright, board member for health and adults, said: "This is such an innovative scheme and has been supported by departments right across the council.

"Sometimes people do not give care leavers the chance they deserve but this scheme is proving that we have some remarkable young people who have come through care and have such a lot to give back to society."

The recruits receive financial support from the Young Peoples Team and are given pre-employment preparation and NVQ assessment by the Runcorn based learning provider, In Training.

Candidates work towards a formal NVQ qualification and can access other training.

The aim is to achieve permanent employment with the council or outside agencies.

Two young people have already secured full-time jobs.

Rebecca Turner, aged 19, from Runcorn, is now a receptionist after completing a traineeship with Halton Brook and Halton Lodge children's centres. She also gained an NVQ2 in customer service.

The scheme was launched to coincide with National Care Leavers' Week, which starts tomorrow.

Any local employers wishing to give care leavers an opportunity, can call Ian Mountain on 0151 471 7396 or e-mail ian.mountain@halton.gov.uk

Receptionist Rebecca Turner with Eileen Clarke, performance manager Halton Community Services