Youth support scheme will help more young people in Dudley find jobs, says MP

Sonia Kumar, MP for Dudley, welcomed the extension of the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer scheme, which was set up to tackle youth unemployment and help young people gain the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

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She said the scheme provided tailored funding to address unique local challenges,and in Dudley the focus was on St Thomas and St James wards, where youth unemployment levels were among the highest in the borough.

Miss Kumar said the first year of the programme created subsidised work experience placements and improved engagement with young people, to connect them with vital training, mentoring and support networks. 

With funding extended for a further year, more young people in Dudley would benefit from this lifeline, she said.

Miss Kumar added: “Too many young people in Dudley feel locked out of opportunities. 

"The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer scheme is already making a difference by helping young people into work experience, training and support. I am determined that this second year of investment delivers even more. Every young person in Dudley deserves the chance to build a future full of hope, skills and opportunity.”