A DROP-IN event is being held to raise awareness of the support available through the Tees Valley Pathways Youth Employment Initiative Programme.

The session take place in the ballroom at The Grand Hotel, Swainson Street, Hartlepool from 11am-3pm on Thursday.

The initiative is part of the £20 million programme aimed at getting more than 6,000 unemployed young people, aged 15-29, into education, employment, training or apprenticeships.

Councillor Kevin Cranney, chairman of Hartlepool Council’s regeneration services committee, said: “This is a chance for young people to find out more about this successful initiative in an informal, relaxed setting.

“I hope they will take the opportunity to come along and find out more about how the initiative may be able to help them.

“Improving employability and creating a pool of skilled, motivated and ready-for-work young people is vital if we are to meet the needs of existing companies and attract new investment to the Tees Valley.”

The programme offers a range of innovative and interesting activities and courses to help young people into work and uses sport, creative arts and culture to help them improve their social skills. People entering the programme receive personalised support from a dedicated advisor.

Staff from the programme will be present at the Grand Hotel event to offer advice and information, along with representatives of recruitment agencies and training providers.

  • More information about the event or the Tees Valley Pathways and Routeways Programmes can be obtained by calling 01429-857080 or emailing YEI@hartlepool.gcsx.gov.uk