Thousands of training opportunities pledged

The West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker learning the art of mixology with two young people on an employment programme

Employers have pledged thousands of training opportunities for young people in a bid to tackle the West Midlands' high youth unemployment rate.

Figures released by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) showed 16,000 work experience, apprenticeship and training placements had been made available by businesses across the region.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker launched his Youth Plan last summer and set a target of creating 20,000 opportunities over the next three years.

He said there were around 29,000 young people classed as unemployed in the West Midlands, with a rate double the national average in some areas including Birmingham, Wolverhampton and Walsall.

The Labour mayor said: "We're backing young people with the skills and opportunities they need to get started in an exciting career and set themselves up for life.

"This is a win-win as we're also helping local firms secure the vital talent they need to grow.

"By connecting people to good jobs, we're not just changing individual lives – we're strengthening our communities and securing our region's future prosperity."

WMCA is working with Movement to Work to help connect firms with young people who don't have jobs.

'Realise my strengths'

The scheme helped restaurant chain Mitchells & Butlers join the Diageo Learning for Life programme to help people get qualifications and work experience.

Mr Parker met with young people taking part in the scheme at All Bar One in Brindley Place, Birmingham.

Tamara Pinnock, aged 18 from Bartley Green, said: "I have never been very academic but managed to get through school and started thinking about a career in hospitality.

"Work experience and training are like stepping stones that help to build you up. I'm hoping it leads to a career in mixology.

"It's been really valuable to experience working in the hospitality sector. I'm halfway through the course and already it has helped me to realise what my strengths are and what I can bring to a team."

Tamara Pinnock (left) said her love of socialising helped her provide a great service for her customers

Shane Masters, aged 21 and from Weoley Castle, said: "I did quite well at school and have always had a good head for numbers but wasn't sure what I wanted to do.

"I started a college course which wasn't working out for me so after a year I looked for a different path.

He said he had been looking for a job for two years, completing "lots" of application forms and not hearing back, and that work experience would help him find direction.

"Doing a programme like this is perfect for young people who may be struggling with their confidence. It helps them to really push themselves and get that first link with an employer."