Winchester City Council, working alongside three other authorities, is launching a face-to-face online support service to help young people across the area to find employment and enhance their career prospects.
Eastleigh Borough Council, Test Valley Borough Council, New Forest District Council and Winchester City Council have partnered to launch the Central and West Hampshire Youth Employment Hub to connect with and listen to young people and help them secure employment and training opportunities. Youth employment has been adversely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic over the past 18 months and the new hub will provide face-to-face support at a variety of locations within each of the four local authority areas. Young people will be able to gain help, support and advice on a range of training and employment opportunities and will be informed about local activities, such as local youth groups, sports clubs, drama, art groups and activity sessions.
The project is being funded by the Department for Work and Pensions that also provides Job Centre Work Coaches who work closely with employers, training providers, schools and colleges.
Andy Sherman, Employer and Partnership Manager at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP):
“The launch of The Central and West Hampshire Youth Employment Hub is an important step in enhancing the lives of local young people. Through the joint effort of the Department for Work and Pensions and Eastleigh Borough Council, Test Valley Borough Council, New Forest District Council and Winchester City Council, it will provide effective, targeted and tailored support, moving more young people into employment.”
Cllr Martin Tod, Cabinet Member for the Local Economy, at Winchester City Council, said:
“We are really pleased to be able to offer this level of support to young people in our area. The last 18 months or so have been especially tough for young people just starting out in their careers and we hope that with this service we can help them succeed in finding employment.”
Young people throughout the Winchester district can now access the information here: www.winchester.gov.uk/business/employment/youth-hub and use the service to develop skills, find training opportunities and seek advice on employment.
