Clarets give jobless helping hand

Burnley FC in the Community have set themselves a new goal to help transform the lives of young people in the town.
Helping hand: Neil Hart, Head of Community at Burnley Football Club with Donnie Doran of Neville Gee launching the employability courseHelping hand: Neil Hart, Head of Community at Burnley Football Club with Donnie Doran of Neville Gee launching the employability course
Helping hand: Neil Hart, Head of Community at Burnley Football Club with Donnie Doran of Neville Gee launching the employability course

Unemployed residents, aged between 16 and 24, are being given a unique opportunity to get back into work or education as part of a two-year employability programme funded by Barclays and the Premier League.

The Turf Moor club are one of 20 Premier League teams to deliver the project – engaging with partners in the town, including the Jobcentre, and working closely with recruitment agency Neville Gee Ltd.

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Over the next year, three 12-week courses will be held at Turf Moor, to give young people the chance to develop skills, including CV writing, job searching and job applications. The Barclays Premier League Works project will also include a sustainability programme, work placements at Burnley home games, and talks by industry experts.

Head of community at Burnley FC Neil Hart said: “This is a really innovative experience for young people in Burnley to do something bespoke – I don’t think the town has seen the likes of it. We want to change lives.”

Twenty young people are being taken onto each course – and according to Mr Hart it is being dealt with on a first come, first serve basis.

It is hoped that 60% of those given the opportunity, which also includes 12 months of mentoring once they have finished their course, will find themselves back in work or education.

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As part of Barclays Community Champions volunteer project, the club will also be helping young people get out and about in the community with the help of Neville Gee Ltd.

Co-owner of Neville Gee Donnie Doran said: “We will be give full assistance in delivering the programme... and looking for work placement opportunities for those taking part.

“This is a totally unique opportunity for people in Burnley, and we are hoping they will show interest.

“This is also another example of how the Burnley Bondholders network can deliver on behalf of the people in Burnley.”

The first course will begin on November 3rd. To sign up contact Burnley FC’s Carl Hullett by ringing 704716 or emailing [email protected]