Young unemployed are being given ground-breaking new opportunities through the DurhamWorks Programme. In a joint project between the County Council and Groundwork, three teams of five young people have been recruited to undertake a range of environmental projects while receiving training from both Groundwork and the council’s Clean and Green team. These teams will undertake project work across the county as part of an ‘environmental task force.’ Cllr Brian Stephens, said: “It’s a pleasure to be able to bring these dedicated young people into the workplace, where we know they’ll be a real asset to Groundwork and our Clean and Green team. “Furthermore, they’ll get satisfaction from making improvements to their home county, so local residents will also benefit from this groundbreaking scheme.”
Chris Watson, head of land and communities at Groundwork North East, added: “Groundwork welcomes the opportunity to work in partnership with Durham County Council to provide genuine opportunities for young people to improve their skills and gain work experience whilst improving the local environment within their own communities.” DurhamWorks is a partnership programme between Durham County Council and 15 other organisations, for young people aged 16-24 living in County Durham who are not in education, employment or training. The project is funded by the European Social Fund, supported by the European Youth Employment Initiative and the various partner organisations. Oliver Sherratt, Durham County Council’s head of direct services, said: “I can’t wait to see the positive impact this scheme will have, not only on the communities that will benefit from these specialised teams, but on the lives of these young people who now have gainful employment.” Four supervisors have also been employed to manage the teams as they start keeping the county clean and green. To find out more about DurhamWorks visit durhamworks.info
