Wirral companies win awards for helping teenagers on to the career ladder

May 6 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

EMPLOYERS across Wirral have pledged to help more teenagers get their first foot on the career ladder.

The promise came at last week’s Wirral Star Employer Awards, which paid tribute to those who offer work experience and apprenticeships.

Scottish Power, Abstract Beauty and Hair, Williamson Art Gallery and Wirral Council’s technical services department were among the winners.

They were nominated by youngsters who have benefited from their help.

Scottish Power triumphed in the work related learning category, receiving five nominations from young people.

Williamson Art Gallery won the prize for Pre 16 Work Experience and Abstract Beauty and Hair won the award for Apprenticeships.

Wirral Council’s technical services section won the award for post–16 work experience.

Around 200 employers and young people attended the celebration at Thornton Hall Hotel.

Television presenter Gordon Burns hosted the awards and guests were entertained by young performers from Wallasey School, Birkenhead Sixth Form College and singer Natalie Travis.

Councillor Phil Davies, Wirral Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Creating work positions for young people or simply giving someone valuable work experience can mean so much.

“It really does change people’s lives.”