Member Article

£6.6 million invested in Liverpool to tackle youth unemployment

Liverpool City Region investment charity, One Ark, is partnering with TalentMatch LCR, a Big Lottery funded initiative which has invested £6.6 million into the region to provide mentoring and employment opportunities for young people who may be struggling to secure work.

TalentMatch LCR is aimed at young people aged 18-24 who have been out of employment, education or training (NEETs) for over 12 months and who are furthest away from the job market.

The programme provides mentoring, training and support, for example assistance with job applications or interview preparation.

It also works with hidden NEETS – young people, often with complex barriers to employment, who are not engaged with employment or training programmes and who require intensive support.

TalentMatch LCR is a Liverpool City Region programme.

It is part of the nationwide TalentMatch initiative, running projects in 21 areas of the UK.

The total fund being distributed across the country is valued at £108 million.

TalentMatch LCR, which is part-funded by the Big Lottery, last year exceeded its target for finding lasting employment for young people engaged with the programme by 10%.

Director of enterprise and investment at One Ark, Helen Wills, said: “We partner with local agencies and likeminded organisations wherever possible to create inspiring and sustainable opportunities for Liverpool City Region residents who wouldn’t normally have access to them.

“Everyone we work with shares our desire to help and support the people who live in the communities that surround us.

“Our work with TalentMatch LCR is a perfect example of this and we’re proud to team up with the initiative to create real chances for young people who haven’t had an easy start or who may be considered vulnerable.

“We’re passionate about championing projects which raise the aspirations of young people and generate even more positive life changes for people throughout the region.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .