A new hope for youngsters?

Icoco Training, based in Cleckheaton, opened its doors at the end of last year after winning a substantial contract from the European Social Fund to provide training for those aged 19-24. It is alongside its work with younger jobseekers, aged 16-plus.

Director Allisonne Reilly said that there were currently 182 apprenticeship vacancies, covering everything from business administration to Beauty Therapy, Nail Services and Customer Service.

Allisonne, a former teacher, set up Icoco Training after realising the lack of provision for youngsters not in education, training or employment in north Kirklees.

“We can offer opportunities to young people in a lot of jobs,” she said.

“We are open to everyone in this area, because I think this part of Kirklees been neglected for far too long.

“It is about creating opportunities for young people to step up and get themselves working.

“We have to invest in young people for them to have a purpose in life.”