Staff at a neighbourhood investor company have signed up to boost the lives and future prospects of young people in Ellesmere Port and Neston.

Plus Dane, which manages the 5,600 council owned homes across the former borough, is supporting the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Ambassadors programme.

The initiative contributes to the national curriculum, gives an insight into career opportunities and helps develop the employability skills of young people.

Plus Dane staff across a number of departments across the organisation’s Civic Way office and Rossfield Road depot are volunteering their time to share their knowledge and give  advice to young people considering their future.

These include employees in construction and maintenance, business development, IT and support services for local residents.

The Plus Dane ambassadors have already visited a number of local high schools and will continue to do so as well as providing opportunities for job shadowing and work placements.

Staff say they are keen to share their experiences and encourage young people to explore options including higher education, apprenticeships and workplace learning, as well as showing young women how they can forge careers in traditionally male-dominated industries like construction.

Plus Dane director Hayley Hulme said:“We are delighted to be able to support the STEM programme.

“Ellesmere Port is traditionally a centre of industry and continues to attract significant investment in jobs and business.

“With the right skills and qualifications local young people have the opportunity to develop excellent careers and to contribute to supporting a vibrant local economy for the town long into the future.”

Michelle Dow, managing director of Cheshire STEM, added:“We are delighted to be working with Plus Dane Group who are supporting the STEM ambassador scheme.

“It is vital that we provide our young people with real, positive role models to inspire the next generation to choose STEM subjects.”

Anyone who would like to know more about the initiative should contact Sharon Vaughan in Plus Dane’s learning and development team on 0151 373 2514 or email sharon.vaughan@neighbourhoodinvestor.com.