Published on:
02
April 2013
Enterprise and Environment Convener, Councillor Donald Balsillie has welcomed new figures which show that fewer young people are claiming unemployment benefit in the county compared to the same time last year.
The figures follow considerable investment to improve employment opportunities for young people
It has been achieved by the Council's guaranteed place in training or education for 16 - 19 year-olds through 'Opportunities for All', and the continual flow of Modern Apprenticeships being offered through Clackmannanshire Works.
In Clackmannanshire 65 fewer young people claimed unemployment benefit than at the same time last year.
Councillor Balsillie said: "The latest figures are the clearest demonstration yet of Clackmannanshire Council's action on youth employment is helping to support more young people into jobs.
"Seeing such a steep fall in claimant count for Clackmannanshire is very positive news for the area's young people as we push hard to improve the options available to them.
"However, one young person not in training or employment is one too many and our work must continue.
"Our efforts so far have been successful by a guaranteed offer of a place in education or training for every 16-19 year old, through funding for Modern Apprenticeships each year."
Efforts will be stepped up this year by launching locally-based employer recruitment incentives which will offer financial support to small companies willing to give young people a job and is backed by £15 million of Scottish Government funding and by £10 million European Structural funding.
Councillor Balsillie added: "Clackmannanshire's young people are an important part of our dynamic workforce and are keen to take advantage of the opportunities that are available.
"With continued assistance from businesses we will do all we can to provide these opportunities. To that end I would urge more employers in Clackmannanshire to make young people their business."