MORE young people are being helped onto the career ladder, latest figures have revealed.
Connexions is backing the Northeast Press campaign Keep Northumberland Working by saying there are opportunities out there for young people.
And for one group of 16 to 19-year-olds, Christmas has come early.
Personal advisers at igen Connexions helped the 93 find a job, training or educational opportunities before Christmas — helping to reduce figures for those not in education, employment of training (NEET).
Head of Service Sally Weir said: “Personal advisers have set a new record in Northumberland for November. The number of leavers from NEET to positive starts is the highest progression rate this year.”
She said successful outcomes are due to the highly skilled advisers and their network of supportive partners all pulling together to get a ‘win-win for everyone’.
Fifteen young people gained apprenticeships in surveying, engineering, IT, hairdressing, motor vehicle, media design and joinery.
A wide range of quality jobs with locally-recognised training were also secured by 40 young people, from Berwick to Seaton Valley, with some of the jobs in sales, administration and catering.
Most went to youngsters aged 18, but 23 young people aged 16 and 17 also secured employment.
New opportunities are now being sought in the county, especially in south east Northumberland, to help keep NEET figures for 16 to 19-year-olds as low as possible.
Staff at Connexions are aiming to hold the NEET level to 6.5 per cent by January 30.
Any business which may be able to give an opportunity to a young person should call 01670 798180.