A STAR apprentice has backed an enterprising campaign to help young people across St Helens get onto the work ladder.

In an attempt to drive down the number of unemployed 16-24 year olds, a challenge has been launched to create 100 apprenticeships in 100 days across the borough.

And 32 days into the campaign, created by St Helens Chamber and St Helens Council, 29 apprenticeships have already been secured.

Former Rainford High pupil, Chris Kenny, started his apprenticeship last year and has now landed a job at GPW Recruitment.

Chris, 20, said: “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do before joining GPW, and I even did joinery.

“I love recruitment and it’s a job I never would have thought I’d be able to do.

“This apprenticeship was fantastic because it took me out of my comfort zone and gave me new skills.”

As well as a permanent job, he has also gained an NVQ qualification in Business and Administration.

Chris said: “By doing an apprenticeship, it shows employers you are willing and able to work.

“It’s also a great opportunity for employers because they can mould an apprentice to fit their needs and take you on for very little cost because of the help given”

To encourage businesses to support the project, a contribution of £2,500 will be made towards wages.

Your St Helens Star is backing the campaign and will publicise how many young people get into work thanks to the scheme.

St Helens Chamber can currently deliver training in fields from bricklaying through to management.

And if the chamber can’t provide training, it will do its best to find someone who can.

The new package of financial support is available thanks to the European Social Fund via St Helens Council and is aimed at small to medium-sized enterprises (less than 250 employees).

Apprentices recruited need to be aged 16-24 and will be employed by the business, paid minimum wage or higher.

If you have a potential apprentice vacancy, contact Debbie Hillon or Daniel Manchester on 01744 742000, alternatively, you can email workforce@sthelenschamber.com

MP Dave Watts does his bit for campaign ST HELENS North MP Dave Watts is backing the campaign by taking an apprentice at his constituency office.

He told the Star: “I’m aware there are a lot of young people who will not be able to find work and I think it is crucial we don’t end up with a lost generation.

“I wanted to do my bit by taking on an apprentice, and I would encourage others to do the same.”

He said: “We are hoping to recruit an apprentice through the St Helens Chamber over the next few weeks for an administrative role.

“I’m technically challenged, so I’m hoping for a young person who’s good with technology.

“It’s difficult times for business and industry now but it’s a worthwhile venture and all of the people I have spoken to have seen the benefits so I hope that others will take apprentices on too.”

Companies signed up to the scheme are Capital Bookkeeping, Parkside Ltd, GPW Recruitment, P&R Labpak, Saints Foundation, TJ & S Jenkinson Ltd and Wind in the Willows.