Merton’s Teenagers to Work scheme is a success again

Nearly 20 young people have been given the chance to experience working life as part of Merton Council’s successful Teenagers to Work scheme.

The scheme gives young people who are looked after by Merton and young people with a disability whose families are provided with respite care, the chance to work in council departments.

The 19 young people who took part in this year’s Teenagers to Work scheme, which is now in its second year and is part of Merton’s Corporate Parenting initiative, started their two-week placements on 12 August.

The group, who have worked in Merton’s school maintenance, housing, libraries, traffic and parking, benefits, and translation sections will take part in a lunchtime celebration hosted by Councillor Maxi Martin, Cabinet Member for Care Services, and the 22 officers who have acted as mentors on Friday 23 August.

There will also be a presentation ceremony at the YMCA, Wimbledon Broadway where each of the participants will receive a certificate and have the opportunity to talk about their time on the scheme.

Councillor Maxi Martin said: “The Teenagers to Work scheme is part of the Corporate Parenting initiative designed to help young people overcome some of the difficulties and discrimination they face as they make the transition into adulthood and enter the working environment.

“The scheme has been successful again because of the commitment demonstrated by Officers and Members at all levels of the Council. Most impressive of all though were the young people themselves that took part showing us all what qualities and skills they possess. Well done to them all.”