Youngsters given jobs with Leicestershire County Council in a scheme to boost their chances of getting permanent work

Some 20 young people are to be given jobs with Leicestershire County Council in a scheme to boost their chances of getting permanent work.

The Government’s Kickstart scheme is open to those aged between 16 and 24 who are currently claiming Universal Credit.

It bankrolls job placements for six months.

But the county council is doubling the length of some placements to 12 months to give candidates the best possible start to their working lives.

County council jobs are available across several departments.

They include fleet management, waste operations and surveying - as well as roles in business support and administration.

The new employees will shadow various manual, technical and administrative staff in their roles.

They will learn on the job and receive additional employability support and training.

Getting involved in a range of activities within each role will enable them to decide what they would like to do in the long term.

The council aims to equip young people with the vital experience and skills to pursue a career either with the county council or with other employers.

County council leader Nick Rushton said: “The pandemic has had a big impact on the jobs market in Leicestershire.

“We are doing all we can to boost the local economy and to help residents to get into long term employment.”

Cllr Rushton added: “The Kickstart scheme will give these young people an insight into the working world and will equip them with the necessary skills to either continue a career within the county council.

“Or to use the experience and knowledge they gain to move on to another job.”

Young people interested in finding out more about the roles on offer should talk initially to their DWP Work Coach.

Supporting Kickstart is part of a package of measures offered by Leicestershire County Council designed to boost the local economy, improve skills and help people into work.