A new £75m Welsh Government scheme that will create 12,000 new job opportunities over the next three years was launched by the First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones, today.
Jobs Growth Wales will create new job opportunities for unemployed young people, aged 16-24, for a 6-month period and provide business with the chance to expand and make those posts permanent.
During a visit to Scarlet Communications in Carmarthen, one of the companies taking part in the programme pilots, First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:
“Jobs Growth Wales is a flagship policy in our commitment to boost economic growth and jobs in Wales.
“Not only will this scheme create opportunities for unemployed young people, who have suffered more than most in the recession, but these posts will also be new jobs, helping Welsh businesses to expand.”
Participants will be paid at or above the National Minimum Wage for a minimum of 25 hours per week. The programme will cater for those that are job ready but can’t find employment.
Deputy Minister for Skills, Jeff Cuthbert, said:
“The current financial climate has led to the emergence of a growing number of 16-24 year olds who have fallen outside work or education,” he explained.
“Jobs Growth Wales will enable individuals to gain good quality work experience to progress into permanent employment or where appropriate an apprenticeship. The majority of jobs will be generated within the private sector, although there will also be some available in the voluntary sector.
“Businesses that take part in the scheme will need to demonstrate that the jobs we support are new ones. We will work with all employers and young people involved to do our very best to ensure there is a destination for everyone, be it full time work with the current employer, an apprenticeship or a full time job with another employer.”
Scarlet Communications, Managing Director, Jason Rosser, said:
“We were delighted to take part in this innovative scheme. Not only have we been able to offer valuable experience to some enthusiastic and talented young people but it has also given us the chance to expand our business into new areas. As a result of the programme we hope to be able to create new permanent posts and offer full time work to all participants.”
Following a successful pilot, Mr Cuthbert said a wide variety of large and small private sector companies from across Wales are interested in joining the programme, offering a range of opportunities for young people.
Examples of some of those companies include:
- Target Group. Software and IT services.
- Admiral Insurance
- TB Davies in Bridgend. One of the UKs leading scaffolding suppliers to industry
- Meritor Cwmbran. Engineering, Manufacturers of Heavy Duty Brake Systems
- Pennaf Ltd. Housing services in mid and North Wales
- Emrys Art Supplies, with shops in Carmarthen and Haverfordwest.
- Cerrig Granite & Slate. Pwllheli. One of the UK’s leading stonework specialists.
Mr Cuthbert explained that the programme will also provide an opportunity to tackle some specific issues within the Welsh economy. There will be three specific streams targeting graduates, micro business and green jobs.
Young people can apply for vacancies through a dedicated web based system, Jobs Growth Wales Live, at www.careerswales.com
