Job prospects for young people are brighter thanks to Conservative-led West Lindsey District Council’s ‘good recruitment’ practices.

West Lindsey District Council has received the Positive About Young People award from Lincolnshire County Council. It recognises the council’s commitment to young people in the workplace by addressing the areas of employment, experience of work and awareness of opportunities.

Lincolnshire County Council’s Assistant Director of Children’s Services, Debbie Barnes, congratulated the council. She said:

“I am delighted that West Lindsey District Council has demonstrated such good recruitment practice in relation to young employees. I am aware they also offer valuable support to young people with initiatives such as work experience.”

In 2011 West Lindsey District Council employed fifteen young people aged 16 to 24 working in different service areas across the whole authority. This includes a number of apprentices, trainees and casual workers.

In addition the council also offered fourteen work placements from various schools, colleges and universities, which allows University students to gain valuable work experience.

Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr. William Parry, Conservative (Scotter Ward), said:

“It has never been more important especially in the current economic climate that we provide opportunities for young people.

“I believe the council has an important role to teach young people valuable skills and on the job training, which means the work they are doing is real.

“It gives people the chance to get real qualifications, upskill and take the first step towards a career.”

Support officer for communications and human resources, Ms Laura Guilliatt, is currently studying an NVQ level 2 in business administration. The 22-year-old from Gainsborough said:

“I am grateful to the council for providing me an opportunity to gain further qualifications. This is helping me in my current job and it will be a great asset as I progress further in my career.”

In addition the council also encourages work experience placements, helping to boost young people’s CV’s. Chief Executive of West Lindsey District Council, Mrs. Manjeet Gill said:

“This award not only shows that we care about young people but it demonstrates how passionate they are about seizing the opportunities available to them.”