Regular peer support helping youth in Wainuiomata

Monthly peer support sessions are one of a few new programmes helping get Wainuiomata youth ready for employment, or further study and training.

The courses are free to anyone who is signed up with The Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs, a programme helping young Wainuiomata people into meaningful jobs, training or employment.

Marcia Skinnon, the programme’s manager says, “We started these workshops last quarter and it’s been a great way for our young people to get to know and support each other.

“As well as socialising we often have guest speakers from various industries to interact and talk on a range of topics related to community and career pathways.”

More than 100 Wainuiomata youth are registered with The Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs, having self-nominated themselves for help with jobs, training or study. There have been 71 placements in total. Ten people have gone into further education, seven are now training or on work experience and 54 are in part-time and full-time employment across Lower Hutt. In the last quarter 10 new employment opportunities were created by local business partners for young people.

Other courses being run by The Taskforce include gaining a Learners Licence,
Toastmaster’s courses helping young people learn about speaking styles and interpersonal communication as well as personal grooming, a fun and interactive course getting people work-ready through appropriate dress and style lessons.

ENDS

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