In response to what they describe as a ‘lack of support available to young people locally’, Frodsham Foundation and Frodsham Youth Association have devised a six-week programme offering 16 to 24-year-olds the opportunity to learn valuable workplace skills.

Launched on Tuesday, Sixteen24 will run on Tuesday and Friday mornings until July 18 and cover areas from personal financial management to CV writing and interview skills.

The programme has attracted the support of both local and national businesses including O2, who are offering mentoring, work experience and the opportunity to build apps and make a short film through their O2 Think Big scheme.

Participants will even have the opportunity to accept local driving instructor Linda Brown’s offer of free driving lessons and help with the theory test.

Kate Dogdson, of Frodsham Foundation, said: “Youth unemployment is a big problem, with the scarring effects lasting a lifetime in terms of health and prosperity. 

“According to official figures, we have 53 young people in Frodsham and 35 in the surrounding area not in employment, education or training so we spoke with young people and employers to establish what the barriers are to them securing employment in the area.

“Local businesses told me that many young people lacked the life skills, experience and confidence necessary to stand out in a crowd.

“None of the participants are claiming any benefits so they don’t appear to be showing up on official government figures for youth unemployment.”

Work placements for two young people who attended Tuesday’s induction event have already been secured, as well as mentoring for another youth.

Frodsham Youth Association’s Nic Mikoleizik added: “Although we started on Tuesday, we know of another four people joining us on Friday who were unable to make the induction.

“We are keen for them to come along and we will help tailor a package to meet their needs.”

The twice-weekly sessions will be held at Frodsham Youth Association on Fluin Lane from 9.30am until 11.30am.

For more information, contact Kate on 07970798247, email kate.dodgson@frodshamfoundation.net, or visit FrodshamNews on Facebook or Twitter.