HALF a million pounds has been invested in a new project to fund apprenticeships for vulnerable young people in north Kent. Reporter ABIGAIL WOODCOCK finds out more.

FINDING work can be a tricky business- especially during the recession.

But coupled with learning difficulties, a criminal record or a teenage pregnancy, a job can seem like a distant dream.

To tackle the problem, Kent County Council (KCC) has launched The Vulnerable Learner Apprenticeship Project.

The scheme places youngsters aged between 16 and 25 who have difficulty finding a job into a work environment of their choice for 12 months.

Placements include apprenticeships in retail, floristry, hairdressing, horticulture and catering.

Young people have the chance to work towards accredited qualifications and the council hopes the skills they gain can be applied in later work.

KCC fully funds the project, paying each apprentice £105 a week, as well as helping them with their travel costs.

It has so far employed 67 people across the county, as well as giving seven people with learning difficulties an Apprenticeship Style Opportunity (ASO).

Employment support officer for the project, Mitch Mitchell says the scheme is “cutting edge.”

He added: “It really helps people with disabilities and teaches them all of the things work brings - self esteem, confidence and independence.”

To find out more, visit kent.gov.uk

The project caters for:

Young offenders

Teenage parents

Youngsters about to leave care

People with physical disabilities or mental health problems

What does the apprentice say?

JASMEAN Khakh is an office administration apprentice at Diamond PAT testing- a company in Princes Road, Dartford that tests electrical appliances for charities so they can sell them to raise money.

The 18-year-old, who has learning difficulties, was referred to an ASO by her support worker.

She works from 10am until 2pm four days a week, and on the fifth, does an IT course at a college in Maidstone.

The former Leigh Academy pupil, of Lunedale Road, Dartford, also has group training once a week where she looks at health and safety, employability and citizenship.

She said: “I feel like I’ve learnt a lot and it’s helped me in my confidence and become more independent.

“I know a lot more now about data bases and excel from the role that I do.

“It’s been a valuable scheme to be a part of.”

What does the employer say?

Diane Marsh is CEO of Diamond PAT testing.

She was approached by KCC to hire young people as apprentices through the Vulnerable Learner Apprenticeship Project.

Believing in helping young people onto their feet and into work, she identified key opportunities within her business and has since taken on two apprentices, including Jasmean.

Diane said: “The scheme gives young people the opportunity to work which is fantastic.

“With the expertise from KCC, it’s been a wonderful relationship and one where everybody benefits.”