Opportunities for Westminster unemployed

David Woods, 10 November 2008

Young people in Westminster will have the opportunity to work with UK construction companies as part of a new scheme to help the unemployed find work.

Young residents will get the chance to gain work experience with firms such as Balfour Beatty, FM Conway, Murphy Group and WSP UK as well as studying for an NVQ qualification at college. Trainees will also receive a regular income.

Leader of Westminster City Council Colin Barrow launched the initiative, the Westminster Highways Training (WHT) scheme, as part of an economic plan for the area.

Barrow said: "This scheme will give young people and local residents in these harsh economic times greater opportunities and those who want to work in highway maintenance will gain essential and useful qualifications while still being able to earn a regular wage as they train."

Barry Warner, business development manager at Balfour Beatty, added: "The WHT scheme reflects our ongoing commitment to engaging with young people in the community and we are delighted to be part of this partnership."