Funding boost for Darlington job seekers

Funding to help dozens of unemployed young people back into work has been secured by Darlington Council.

The £299,000 from the Department for Work and Pensions, will create 46 jobs for 19 to 24-year-olds who have been out of work for more than 10 months.

It will be the last payout under the national Future Jobs Fund, which is due to be scrapped.

Those wanting to apply must be referred by Jobcentre Plus, which will carry out an eligibility assessment.

An analysis of their strengths, weaknesses and identify potential barriers to employment will also be carried out.

Once employed through the scheme, the employer and placement officer will dedicate time to help the new employee to address those barriers so they can be overcome.