Advice hub on hand for young jobseekers
Expert training and reskilling will be available at the Waterside Centre
YOUNG jobseekers in West Berkshire and the wider region are to be supported by a new youth hub, launched last week at the Waterside Centre, Newbury.
Youth employability coaches from Jobcentre Plus will be on hand to offer tailored advice to those using the hub’s services, including on local training and reskilling opportunities.
David Seward, CEO of Berkshire Youth, which is responsible for the recent transformation of the centre, said: “Berkshire Youth is delighted to be working in partnership with the DWP on the launch of the Youth Hub.
“The recent refurbishment of the Waterside Centre, in the heart of our community, has enabled this opportunity to happen.
“Berkshire Youth is excited about the potential future opportunities for our young people here at Waterside.”
Newbury MP Laura Farris, who visited the centre for the launch, said: “The transformation of the Waterside Centre has created a fantastic new home for Berkshire Youth. The regular work-coaching sessions and jobs fairs they are holding will give our young people tailored support and a great opportunity to secure apprenticeships and training.
“It is a testament to the work of Berkshire Youth and the generosity of this community that youngsters will be able to enjoy sports, a range of interesting activities and access to work opportunities all from this impressive new building.”
The hub will operate out of the Waterside Centre between 9am and 5pm, from Monday to Friday each week.
Users will also be able to access other services based at the centre, including housing, budgeting and debt management advisers.
Hundreds of similar hubs are opening up and down the country, as part of the Government’s post-pandemic Kickstart Scheme.
Every placement made as part of the scheme will be fully-funded by the Government, paying 100 per cent of the age-relevant minimum wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25
We are giving young jobseekers in Berkshire the support they need to find employment and access vital training so they can get their lives on track
hours of work per week.
Minister for employment Mims Davies said: “Through the DWP Youth Offer, which includes new Youth Hubs like this one as well as the Kickstart Scheme, we are giving young jobseekers in Berkshire the support they need to find employment and access vital training so they can get their lives on track.
“This is a challenging time for many young people, but with our Plan for Jobs creating new opportunities, boosting skills, and supporting young people getting into work and help them progress, we’re ready to push to build back better.”