CARE leavers could soon be given more help to beat the “benefits trap” with an offer of apprenticeships.

Durham County Council is looking at funding up to ten people into apprenticeships and jobs every year and is working with Jobcentre Plus to investigate how much financial support is required to support a group of 15 to 24-year-olds into the world of work, with a guaranteed income for two years.

Cllr Ossie Johnson, the council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We aim to ensure that all of our care leavers achieve their aspirations and fulfil their potential. However, we appreciate that there can be barriers to them progressing into apprenticeships and employment.”

Through their individual advisors, care leavers can already receive mentoring, careers guidance, and advice on money, childcare, transport, mental and sexual health, homelessness and equipment to access work or training.

But it is recognised that many continue to be caught in a “benefits trap” with some feeling that it is not worth working full time for what can be as little as a few pounds extra per week.

The project will form the basis for how other businesses, which are willing to support care leavers, may also offer similar support in the future.

A report on the work being undertaken will be presented to the council’s Cabinet on Wednesday.