Welsh Government
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Jobs Growth Wales job opportunities target beaten - more than a year early

More than 16,000 job opportunities have been created for unemployed young people by Jobs Growth Wales, announced the Deputy Minister for Skill & Technology, Julie James yesterday.

The Welsh Government programme has smashed its target of creating 16,000 job opportunities by March 2016 by almost 18 months.
 
New figures show that 16,108 job opportunities have been created since the scheme began, and 12,730 vacancies filled.
 
This flagship Welsh Government programme provides unemployed young people aged 16-24 with a job opportunity for six months. Jobs Growth Wales helps employers to grow their business by paying the young person’s salary, with the hope they will be offered sustained employment after six months.
 
The European Social Fund-backed programme has filled 432 job opportunities since September’s figures were announced, an increase on the previous month’s 348 jobs. 
 
Yesterday’s statistics show that eight out of ten Job Growth Wales opportunities have been taken up in the private sector. After the six month programme, 83% of participants progress into sustained employment, an apprenticeship or further learning.
 
The self-employment strand of Jobs Growth Wales shows that 395 new businesses have been created since the programme began in April 2012. 
 
Deputy Minister, Julie James said: 
 
“These figures show the Welsh Government’s commitment to providing practical support to unemployed, young people. I’m very pleased that we’ve met our target for creating these opportunities so soon.
 
“It’s no coincidence that recent figures have shown a drop in Welsh youth unemployment. Jobs Growth Wales is playing an important role in helping our young people start a range of exciting careers.
 
“I’m very encouraged that so many private sector employers recognise how they can benefit by taking on employees aged between 16 and 24. Many young people finishing their six month’s opportunity with a private sector employer go on to a full-time job or apprenticeship with them.”

Related Links

Jobs Growth Wales
 
 
Channel website: http://gov.wales

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