A new project has launched to help steer young people away from gang activity.

Wandsworth Council has been awarded £100,000 by the City Bridge Trust to launch a Get Young People Working (GYPW) programme in Wandsworth.

The scheme, which will be ran by social business Catch22, will provide training and mentoring to build youngsters employability skills.

Sixteen people will be provided with supported apprenticeships, which come with extra assistance and targeted towards people who would not be able to access this kind of training.

Another 70 participants will be granted extended work placements to help them progress into full time employment.

A register of young people at risk of gang activity will also be created so they can be offered support.

Councillor Kathy Tracey, cabinet member for Education, said: "This is about rescuing vulnerable young people from the brink of gang membership and saving them and their families from a lifetime of serious trouble and pain.

"Through this programme we will offer local youths a clear pathway out of trouble along with personalised, intensive support to help them keep on a positive track."

The programme will involve the council’s pupil referral unit, 14-19 team, youth service and lifelong learning service working closely with Catch22.

Mark Boleat, chairman of policy at the City of London, said: "This initiative is enabling London boroughs and voluntary organisations to work together in partnership to develop flexible and creative strategies that are responsive to local needs."

 

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