Young unemployed Bury residents are being given the chance to help get into work through a new training programme.

Rochdale Training is offering its new free "Bury Talent Academy" eight-week course at BusinessLodge Bury people aged 16 to 25 who are not in work.

The scheme, which is in partnership with youth charity, The Prince's Trust, will include work experience, a £50 weekly attendance allowance, and the chance of moving onto an apprenticeship or full-time employment.

Due to begin this month, the course will focus on two sectors - health and social care and customer service environments.

Mark Whittaker, skills advisor at Rochdale Training, said: "This course is designed to be fun and will help 16 to 25-year-olds get into employment.

"This practical course will help you make new friends, improve your confidence, and get accredited qualifications with work experience.

"You will be supported every step of the way with a personal mentor and career coach.

"Employers are waiting to meet you, what are you waiting for...apply now."

Everyone accepted onto the course will have the chance to complete digital training, and first aid, alongside an accredited qualification in one of the two sectors.

The work placements will be arranged with local employers over a two-week period.

At the end of the course, learners will be supported to apply for apprenticeship roles across the borough.

Rochdale Training is especially keen to hear from care leavers, cared-for children, unaccompanied asylum seeker children, young carers, electively home educated, those in a transition year, and year 12 students for whom significant disruption has occurred.

For more information on enrolment and eligibility please contact Nathan Finn on 01706 631417 or email nfinn@rochdaletraining.co.uk