2,012 opportunities for young people

The council is committed to helping young people into employment and has set up the 2012 Opportunities programme to give them some help.

We are working with employers to create opportunities. These range from mentoring and work experience to internships and apprenticeships. With more than 3,000 young people looking for work in Westminster, we are helping to match up opportunities with potential candidates.

The programme is coordinated by the council but relies on the commitment and support from the many businesses located in Westminster.

Opportunities

If you are aged between 16 and 24, live in Westminster and are looking for a way into work, take a look at some of the volunteering and training opportunities that are available to you.

Get your business involved

If you work for or represent a Westminster business, be aware that your business can benefit hugely by helping young people gain work experience.

These include:

• Developing the supervisory and management skills of your workforce
• Gaining access to a pool of local talent waiting to be discovered
• Reaching out and gaining insight into the next generation of customers and employees
• Enhancing your company’s standing in the community

• Building staff confidence and motivation via opportunities to act as mentors or role models

Supporters

Katie Wright, 26 - Business Development Director (and recent contestant on the BBC's The Apprentice)

“Westminster’s project to help create and facilitate 2,012 opportunities is a commendable one as over 3,000 young adults are currently looking for work in the city.

“Often employers don’t realise how they can create an opportunity which can really make a difference in a young person’s life. It is refreshing to see a local authority take such bold steps to work with the private sector and help to secure the future of young people.”

Real Stories: Leo

Leo secured a Customer Service Apprenticeship with Alias Hire through the London Apprenticeship Company.

“I really enjoyed college, I got a distinction for my BTEC in Music, but I’m glad I didn’t end up going on to University. I’m a really practical person and by doing an apprenticeship I gain all this experience and earn a wage. The music and media industries are very hard to get into, so I hope the work experience and networking opportunities I get in this job will set me up for the future.

"After college I managed to get a few days work experience but couldn’t find paid work, so I got a job in a supermarket, which I didn’t enjoy much. People say that you don’t earn much doing an apprenticeship, but I’m earning double the amount I got before. I feel like one of the team at Alias Hire. It’s a small company, so I’m involved in everything.

"I hope I get to stay on here but, if not, I know this apprenticeship will help move on in my career.”

Contact

For more information, or if you want to get involved please email 2012opportunities@westminster.gov.uk