FIRMS who help young people got on the career ladder can benefit from a new new grant scheme launched by Trafford Council, in partnership with Trafford College and Connexions

Through the Employer Grant scheme, businesses offering four weeks' work experience, a traineeship, apprenticeship or job to a 16-25 year-old in Trafford and providing travel and lunch expenses, could receive a £500 grant.

Through the scheme, there is also specific emphasis on prioritising young people who currently face significant disadvantages trying to enter the world of work, including those in care or young people with disabilities.

In addition, there will be a further £500 grant available to businesses who take the young person on after a four week period.

Support for the young people throughout the four weeks and beyond will be provided by Trafford College.

Helen Jones, Deputy Chief Executive of Trafford Council, said: "Trafford Council remains committed to working with local businesses, educational establishments and other partners to provide the best possible employment and training opportunities to local young people. This is key if we are to ensure the borough continues to prosper and maintain its standing as the region's economic powerhouse.

"Through the boroughwide Trafford Pledge scheme which 52 local businesses have signed up to, we have already helped over 1000 people enter the work environment. “

Gareth Wilkins, chairman of Trafford employment, skills and enterprise group and manager of Stretford Mall, added: “This new scheme provides yet another excellent opportunity for local employers to play a significant role in providing those vital first steps into employment for our young people who can face additional challenges to get into work. We all know how daunting the world of work can seem, so by offering work experience and training opportunities, businesses can boost a young person's confidence, raise their aspirations and help them realise their individual potential in whatever work environment they wish.

"It is fantastic to have launched this new scheme, which reinforces our support to local businesses willing to open their doors to provide meaningful, educational and potentially life-changing opportunities to local young people who are Trafford's future.”

Businesses wanting further details about the Trafford Employer Grant scheme can contact the council's strategic growth team on 0161 912 4176 or email business@trafford.gov.uk.