BURY’S largest private sector employer is helping open up the workplace to seven more youngsters who have been struggling to find a job.

O2, based in Dumers Lane, is working with Bury Council by supporting the Backing Young Bury (BYB) project — the second time the firm has given new hope to local youngsters not in employment, education or training.

BYB is designed to pave the way for employers to recruit, support and develop a young person in their business. O2 has also launched its own tailor-made two-week work experience programme for people aged 16 to 19.

Cllr Mike Connolly, leader of Bury Council, said: “We are delighted O2 is backing our campaign, helping to highlight the difficulty young people still face when starting their journey into employment.

“It gives them a fantastic opportunity to see what it’s like working for a worldwide organisation.

“Seven unemployed Bury residents will leave with a full understanding of what is expected of them in the world of work.”

Maureen Blood, operations manager and chairman of 02 Think Big at Bury, said: “We’re committed to supporting young people by providing them with opportunities, skills and support that they need to get work.

“Work experience and Think Big Schools are just two examples of O2 Think Big, but anyone between 13 and 25 can get help to enable them to make a difference in their local community. They have access to cash, training and mentoring to make their ideas come alive.” Employers across Bury are also being offered incentives above and beyond the national scheme to recruit apprentices.

The UK wide offer is being delivered by National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) who will present 40,000 incentives of £1,500 per head to small and medium-sized employers who recruit apprentices aged 16 to 24.

The Bury “top-ups” will be made available through the Greater Manchester Commitment which aims to tackle regionwide youth unemployment.

Greater Manchester’s scheme will offer an additional £750 per head, payable to a limited number of employers who have signed up to the Greater Manchester Commitment by taking on an unemployed young person. For more information: email backingyoungbury@bury.gov.uk.