City of Wolverhampton Council has put in place initiatives to support unemployed young people into work and training as part of the West Midlands Youth Trailblazer programme.

Launched by the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, the new Youth Trailblazer provides £5million across the region for a range of innovative projects and activities to engage young people aged 18-21 who are currently not in education, employment or training.

Through Open Door Wolverhampton, the council is co-ordinating four to 12-week supported work experience placements with city employers to help young people overcome barriers to employment and upskill.

It is being delivered in partnership with Wolves at Work and includes wraparound support, careers advice, and digital access.

They will also connect young people to training via pre-apprenticeship programmes, with mentoring and guaranteed interviews.

Connexions careers advisors are aiming to provide seamless transitions to reduce NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) risk, particularly in underserved communities.

They will identify young people who are 18-21 years old, looking for information advice and guidance about their options after leaving school or college.  They will be offered support to identify appropriate training, support and employment to suit their needs.

The council is also set to go live with a partnership with City of Wolverhampton College to engage young people through the new City Learning Quarter campus and outreach services across the city.

Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “By offering our young people a range of flexible options we hope to make a real impact in supporting them into work and training.

“Not only is it important we equip them with the skills for the jobs of the future, we need to ensure those opportunities are open to everyone, no matter their background.

“Our Youth Trailblazer initiatives will offer structured work placements, improving transitions to education and training, and long-term job opportunities.”

Young people who are interested in the Youth Trailblazer should email  youthtrailblazer@wolverhampton.gov.uk or call 01902 554445.