On Monday 8th February the Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP, met virtually with young people in Harrogate to hear how the Sector-based Work Academy Programme via the Kickstart scheme has helped them.
Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington was invited to attend the meeting to find about more about the impact of the programme as part of his role as trustee for Saint Michael’s Hospice.
The young people explained that the Sector-based Work Academy Programme has enabled them to undertake pre-employment training and work experience placements in a sector which they had never considered working in previously.
Peter Gibson, Member of Parliament for Darlington, said: “This is a great example of the many ways in which the Government is looking ahead to tackle the lasting impacts of coronavirus.
“I was thoroughly impressed with the SWAP initiative and the positive impact is has had on the individuals who have undertaken it so far.
“I am delighted that St Teresa’s Hospice in Darlington have committed to 10 placements under the Kickstart Scheme and I look forward to meeting the individuals successfully selected to take on these roles in the future.”
Jane Bradshaw CEO of St Teresa’s Hospice said: “We were delighted to be accepted for these 10 placements under the scheme and I’m looking forward to welcoming them into our retail operations, and introducing them to our MP and lots of our Hospice supporters.
“It’s such good news that we are able to provide these opportunities towards young people gaining employment experience.”
