ST HELENS CHAMBER’S vision to help get 365 young people into work this year has reached the century mark - less than three months after its launch.

The ambitious ‘365 Jobs Challenge’ has seen the Chamber committed to finding job and apprenticeship opportunities for young people – amounting to one for every day of the year.

And with help from Specsavers, on Bridge Street, who have pledged three jobs, the Chamber has created 100 new employment opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds already.

As part of the challenge, the Chamber has promised companies who pledge jobs it will provide all necessary support, including identifying suitable young people and making sure they meet ‘Chamber-approved’ standards before interview.

The Chamber’s Career Coaches are also on hand for any issues during their first few weeks of work.

Meanwhile, apprentice training and access to other courses is provided free of charge by the Chamber’s Business School, with grants to cover half of the young person’s wages for their first year available.

Kath Boullen, chief executive of St Helens Chamber, said: “We wanted 2014 to be a year of opportunity for young people in St Helens, which is why we launched this challenge and encouraged local businesses to help and we haven’t been disappointed.

“The response has been fantastic and to have reached the 100-job milestone so quickly is wonderful.”

Anyone aged between 16 and 24 who is looking for work can call Starting Point, Hardshaw Street on 01744 698800 to speak to a career coach or attend their next open day on Monday March 31.

Any businesses wishing to pledge vacancies can contact St Helens Chamber on 01744 742333.