Barnardo’s backs young jobless

A GROUP of unemployed teenagers has begun the new year with fresh hope in the jobs market after completing a
charity project.

The 16-18-year-olds took part in Barnardo’s Works Edinburgh’s Get Ready for Work programme.

Run in conjunction with Skills Development Scotland, the Granton-based service – which has been operating since 2009 – aims to equip young people with both the employability and life skills required in finding work.

The scheme includes an eight-week work placement in administration or retail, with the possibility of a full-time job to follow. Barnardo’s Works Edinburgh is looking for businesses across the Capital to offer placements to more groups of unemployed teenagers taking part in the programme.

Martin Crewe, director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said: “Barnardo’s Works services give disadvantaged young people the opportunity to gain work experience to help them find employment and provide local companies with motivated employees.

“The partnerships we have established show that companies are still committed to providing opportunities for young people.”

Businesses willing to offer placements can contact Helen Brown, employer liaison officer, on 0131-559 3940.