10/08/10 - Plan 500, Backing Young People

Rod Bluh, leader of Swindon Borough Council, Rikki Hunt, head of SSEP,
Caroline Hallatt, head of corporate responsibility, Nationwide Building Society
Justin Tomlinson Conservative MP North Swindon
and Robert Buckland Conservative MP for South Swindon
(Picture www.swindonweb.com)

A new initiative aimed at helping young people realise their potential and improve their workplace skills was launched today.

Plan 500 is looking for businesses that can offer work experience, apprenticeships, mentors to help with next steps, better qualifications and diplomas.

"Young people are so important in Swindon's economic future," said Rikki Hunt, head of the SSEP, who have devised the scheme.

Those already signed-up include Nationwide Building Society, Swindon Borough Council, New College, inSwindon and Forward Swindon.

Justin Tomlinson MP, "I am exceptionally impressed by this initiative.   Today we have seen first hand how apprenticeships, mentoring and work experience is making a real difference, helping to not only equip the individuals CV but also allowing them to get their foot in the door.

In addition I have been promoting and supporting apprenticeships in Westminster as these equip people with real life, applied skills - essential in these challenging econonic times.

This initiative really does have the 'wow' factor and it will have my full support."

https://www.forwardswindon.co.uk/plan500/default.aspx