Over 80 young people have their careers kick-started thanks to Rochdale Borough Council

The council has helped more than 80 young people to kickstart their careers as part of a Government scheme to take 18 to 24-year-olds away from unemployment.

The council employed 84 local people through the scheme, which is more than any other local authority in Greater Manchester.

The scheme saw those taking part offered six-month contracts for 25 hours a week paid at either the national minimum wage or living wage according to their age.

It was funded by the Department for Work and Pensions who also referred applicants to the council.

The council then mentored the young people, identifying where additional support was needed and provided some form of training to all, exceeding requirements, in a similar way to how an apprenticeship might work.

The result was that 85 per cent of those taking part went on to find more permanent roles, either with the council or externally, including moving on to apprenticeships.

Councillor John Blundell, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “The fact that we were a top ten Kickstart employer across the whole of Greater Manchester showcases the high regard young people have for Rochdale Borough Council as an employer of choice.

“It is testimony to our approach that we employed more 18 to 24-year-olds than other local authorities. The results also speak for themselves in just how many individuals moved on successfully.

“The pandemic hit young people hard and the council welcomed this opportunity to help them overcome the barriers they were facing to getting their careers under way. We wish them every success for their futures.”

The individuals took on a wide range of roles, including marketing, countryside rangers and street services.

The few that did not manage to land other opportunities will be supported by the council’s youth hub. The legacy of Kickstart will see support and development continue with work experience opportunities offered.