COUNCIL-led moves to help young people into employment have won national praise.

The Backing Young Bury Connecting Provision Programme has been held up as an example of best practice in the Local Government Association commissioned National Institute of Economic and Social Research report.

The programme involved council departments in adult learning, public health and sports development and partners such as JobCentre Plus and Unison.

A total of 38 young people took part in the project, which involved a seven-week work experience placement with Bury Council.

During this time, they undertook skills and employability training, participated in health and wellbeing workshops and sport sessions, and had the support of a dedicated personal and career mentor. As well as the work experience, 21 people completed six-months of paid employment.

Following that, 15 people started an apprenticeship with the council, eight continued on a temporary contract basis, while four gained employment elsewhere.

A financial analysis report measured the programme’s economic benefit to Bury at £507,000, despite costs to the council being less than £9,000, with funding predominately sourced externally. The Backing Young Bury Connecting Provision model is currently being replicated with Bury Council’s Super Six Scheme.

Cllr Mike Connolly, leader of the council, said: “We have always said that all young people need is a chance to show their talent and be given the opportunity to work and learn new skills.

"I’m proud of our Backing Young Bury project which has helped so many to take their first steps towards employment and training, and it is pleasing to see that success recognised at national level.”

For further information relating to the Backing Young Bury: call 0161 253 6140 or e-mail backingyoungbury@bury.gov.uk