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Durham County Council Information Service
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Information for Employers

Are you interested in offering a young person some work experience?

Teenagers to Work is a work taster project offering young people a chance to experience the world of work, develop new skills and increase their self confidence, however it also has many benefits for employers


What are the benefits for employers?

  • You can influence young people coming into the labour market.
  • Attracting young people can raise the profile of an organisation within the community.
  • You can help raise standards in vocational qualifications.
  • It can assist in increasing the motivation of employees.
  • Young people can bring a breath of fresh air to your work place as well as providing an additional resource.

How do we support the employer?

  • References are sought before placements to ensure the suitability of the young person to your work place.
  • We will interview the young person about their choice of placement.
  • A Criminal Records Bureau enhanced check will be undertaken on the young person should this be deemed necessary.
  • We will provide basic induction training for the young people that will cover health and safety, first aid, equality and diversity and skills needed for employment.
  • We will make regular visits to the work place to ensure ongoing support for employers and the young people.
  • Any financial assistance young people may need for equipment whilst on placement will be provided by us.
  • Financial assistance for travel and food can also be provided by us.
  • We will be available to employers for advice and guidance whilst the young person is on placement.

What do we ask of employers?

  • That you can give young people a chance to gain some experience within your organisation.
  • That you have the necessary insurance cover to protect the young person i.e. public liability insurance.
  • That a named supervisor is provided to take responsibility for the young person’s training needs whilst on placement.
  • That you can allow a health and safety check to be undertaken before the young person starts their placement.
  • That you provide feedback on the young person’s work performance after their placement with you.

Below are some comments / feedback from other companies who have taken part in the Teenagers to Work project.

Comments by Placement Providers

"hardworking, eager to learn, eager to please, friendly, easy to get along with" Cap a Pie

“She genuinely pleasant young lady. She appears to have ambition and worked well, with enthusiasm and pride." Abbey Day Care Centre - Kitchens

"His skills are developing well and his knowledge of food and ingredients are quite extensive for his age and experience" Durham Business School - Kitchens

".. always on time and very hardworking" Dash Hair Design

"His timekeeping was impeccable and his work was top rate" Cap a Pie

"… good team player willing to lead and followed as required based on individuals’ skills and strengths. Committed and not easily put off." Connexions Activity week

"…helped to motivate others less confident than him" Connexions Activity week

"…hardworking, attentive, willing to learn and go the extra distance to make sure her work was complete and accurate" Care in Durham

"She applied herself well to her duties and performed to a high standard Care in Durham"

"He is a bright young man who wants to learn and do well" Durham Business School - Kitchens

"Very good at relating to young people. Pleasant to work with" CATS

"She has the ability to use her own initiative when needed and to follow instructions." Chimps

"She was a good worker and her time keeping was good." Hole in the Wall Riding School

"Her work performance was brilliant and just did anything we asked her to do" Chimps

"He is punctual, able to complete tasks set for him and can work on his own initiative." Spennymoor Day Centre – Kitchens

"She was conscientious and picked things up easily." Durham Education Business Partnership

If you are interested in becoming an employer and offering young people an opportunity of work experience in your service please contact us.

How to Contact Us

Please contact Trish Lambert or Leanne Bain on teenagerstowork@durham.gov.uk or telephone 01325 372838.

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