THE number of young people not in work or education has fallen across the Redcar and Cleveland area after it was criticised by Whitehall for high levels of youth inactivity.

The borough council was one of the few local authority areas with more than 12 per cent of 16 to 19-year-olds not in education, employment or training (Neet) and was labelled a hotspot for intervention by the government in 2011.

However, three years later and the Office for National Statistics’ figure show that the number has tumbled to 7.7 per cent placing the borough close in line with both the regional and Tees Valley averages.

Councillor Mark Hannon, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic development, said tackling the issue was one on the council’s priorities.

He said: “Reducing youth unemployment is part of a long term strategy but we’re starting to see the results already.

“We realise that as the local economy recovers our young people will need the right skills and qualifications to take up any emerging jobs.”

The council’s Connexions service offers careers advice for people aged 13 to 19 - or up to 25 for those with a disability or a learning difficulty.

Working with schools, colleges, training providers and employers they offer tailored support to each individual’s needs.

As a result fewer than 50 pupils left secondary school, last September, without a plan to continue their development.

In addition, the borough has almost 200 fewer Neets than it did in 2011 which is reflected in the Office for National Statistics’ figures.

The Connexions team is available by calling 01642-774774 or by visiting redcar-cleveland.gov.uk