A COUNCIL is bringing young adults into work by taking part in the national Kickstart youth employment scheme itself.

The scheme provides Government funding to employers to create new jobs for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment.

Burnley council has identified 11 potential placements across the authority.

They last for a six-month fixed term and although there is no guarantee of permanent employment with the council at the end of the contract, the scheme does give young people experience and new skills.

They will be supported to apply for suitable vacancies within the authority if and when they arise.

Cllr Sue Graham, the authority;s finance boss, said: "Burnley Council is proud to be supporting a scheme that helps unemployed young people into work.

"This will always be a top priority, but even more so as we start to recover from the effects of Covid-19.

“The council can offer young people a wide range of experience and give them a solid platform on which to acquire the skills and knowledge for the rest of their working life."

Cllr Asif Raja, Burnley Council's growth boss, said: " I'd encourage other employers across the borough to look into getting involved with Kickstart and bringing more of our young people off benefits and into work. This is something that can help shape a brighter future for them."