New scheme to get vulnerable young people into jobs

With youth unemployment nearing the 1 million mark it is more important than ever that those young people who are out of work are given all the help possible to get into employment.

And there is a percentage of that 1 million who will find it harder than most. There are fears that young people leaving care or those who have a disability may have an even tougher time in finding work as their aspirations are likely to be more affected.

That is why leading children's charity Action for Children has joined forces with Ernst & Young, Gap, Hays and TK Maxx to launch a programme that aims to offer support to young, vulnerable non-workers.

The Step Ahead scheme will provide work experience opportunities as well as training in vital skills to improve the employability of those young people and give them the best possible preparation for the world of work.

Workshops will also to help learn important skills such as good communication, working with others and how to write CVs and prepare for interviews. However, there will also be the access to emotional and practical support should anyone need it.

Clare Tickell, Action for Children Chief Executive, says: "This recession is affecting all young people, but the most vulnerable youngsters are suffering the most. The young people we support don't often get the chance to take up internships or work placements but Step Ahead aims to change that. The programme will raise aspirations and open up a world of possibility but also help young people gain that all important skill that so many employers crave, experience."

Dragon's Den entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne is a supporter of the Step Ahead programme. He said: "Initiatives such as 'Step Ahead' are vital in helping young people get a job. Times are tough for young people at the minute so programmes such as this will help them get that crucial first foot in the door."

Young people taking part in the Step Ahead programme can work towards a nationally recognised accreditation that will look great in their CV and further assist in the employment search.

The charity is still looking for more businesses to join up and support the Step Ahead scheme.

For more information, visit the Action for Children website here.