YOUNG people in Northwich are being encouraged to sign up to a course which could change their lives - the Prince’s Trust programme.

Recruitment has started for the free 12-week course which is being run by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, and starts on Monday, September 15 at Northwich Fire Station.

The programme is aimed at giving young people aged between 16 and 25 who may have become stuck in a rut or who don’t know what they want to do with their future.

Anyone who takes part in the course will have the opportunity to learn new skills, complete qualifications and gain greater self-confidence while on the programme.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Prince’s Trust Project Co-ordinator, Tamsen Lesko said: “We hope that through this programme we can help develop young people’s skills and confidence through practical community projects and work experience.

“Experience shows us that 80 per cent of all previous young people who have graduated from the programme have gone on to achieve things as a result. This includes getting back into or going forward into education or gaining employment and training."

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has had a partnership with the Prince's Trust for almost 20 years, and continues to see the benefits which arise from the work it does. The programme aims to move young people into full-time employment and job-related training.

Northwich project manager, Hazel Crampton, said: “We are looking for young people who are not currently working or not in education who may need a bit of a boost to their confidence.

“They may also lack motivation to develop skills that are crucial to them getting a job. If you think that this sounds like you then please phone the Northwich team for an informal chat.

“Alternatively, you may know someone in your family or a friend who you think might benefit from the programme. If so then please ask them to get in touch.”

Please contact the Northwich Project Assistant Sam Rogers by calling 07717 651690 for more information or to book onto the programme. Alternatively visit the website www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.