Over 2000 people from across the borough have asked for information packs and the council says it has been overwhelmed with the response.
Hundreds of job seekers came to open days for would-be apprentices in Wigan and Leigh to find out more about the new ‘Prospect’ scheme.
“The turnout and the enthusiasm were overwhelming,” said council leader Peter Smith. “But it was sobering to see so many people looking for work or support in the jobs market. It is a massive challenge for all of us.”
Chris Vint, 17, from Golborne said: “I was laid off six months ago by a glazing firm in Hindley and I've been out of work since. I saw the ad in the Leigh Reporter and thought I'd come down to find out more.”
Toni Aspinall, who is in charge of recruitment for the council, said: “We’ve had a wide range of applicants, both young men and women, all really keen to be considered for one of the places we have on offer.
“For the time being we have filled the number of apprenticeships on offer, but our partners in the leisure trust and the NHS are planning to link in with us to increase the number of opportunities.
“It’s an ongoing programme so we will be offering more vacancies later in the year and all those who have applied don’t need to do so again.”
Supported by a government scheme called the Working Neighbourhoods Fund, the council has pledged to take on up to 100 people and offer training to NVQ level, plus a salary of £12,000 with the prospect of a full time job. Unlike traditional apprenticeships these are available to anyone over 16.
You can lean more about the scheme at Prospect (external link) or type Wigan Apprentices into YouTube. Future vacancies will be advertised on the council’s website at Wigan Council (external link)
A big effort is underway to ensure that all this year’s 4,000 school leavers are guaranteed a job, training or further education course through a scheme called the September Guarantee.
Wigan Connexions, the council’s guidance service for young people, is working with schools, colleges and training providers to offer learning or training.
To book a September Guarantee appointment, contact Connexions on 0800 953 0109.
