Paving the Way for Care Leavers

The Mayor of South Tyneside joined inspired young carer leavers as they learned more about the opportunities available for entering the world of work.

The Mayor, Councillor Norman Dick, visited a recruitment open week, which was organised by Resource (NE) Ltd and aimed to showcase the wide variety of training and employment opportunities on offer for young people leaving the care system.

During the event, those taking part were able to learn more about the support available to get into construction trades such as bricklaying, painting and decorating, plastering or joinery.

The Mayor, who was accompanied by the Mayoress, Jean Williamson, said: "It was wonderful to come along to the open week to talk with the trainers and the staff who are helping our young care leavers get a deeper understanding of what it means to be an employee.

"Having spoken to care leavers, initiatives like this not only provide support at a key time in their lives but help to increase their confidence and self-belief that they can go on to realise their aspirations while becoming fully independent members of their community."

The open week was held at the Resources (NE) Construction Training Centre on Bede Industrial Estate, where young people can get practical experience and training in not only construction but trades such as warehousing, security, management and supervisory skills and business administration.

Martin Harrison, Head of Business Development at Resources NE, said: "Having the Mayor visit has been a real inspiration and a great motivator to support young care leavers on their career journey.

"We understand the impact that leaving care can have on a young person. After having previously been looked after for such a long time, they then go on to standing on their own two feet. This is where we can bridge the gap and help them to gain their roots."

The Mayor's visit to Resources NE coincided with the first anniversary of the launch of #LoveSouthTyneside which recognises and celebrates some of the great initiatives across South Tyneside while promoting the Borough as a great place to live, invest and bring up families.