A YOUTH project in Milford Haven has been given £240,000 in Big Lottery Funding, to help young people learn the skills they need to build their confidence and find work.

The money will help Milford Youth Matters fund a three-year project, run in partnership with the county council’s youth service.

The Routes to Opportunity project will offer training and wok experience in catering, gardening, wood work, bicycle maintenance and leisure.

Sian Rendell, project co-ordinator, said the money – which will support five new part-time jobs, will help the 16 to 25-year-olds who use the service explore their potential.

“We aim to support those who are struggling in mainstream education, those who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs), and those with social and emotional difficulties or have disabilities to build skills, attitude and belief in their own abilities, so that they can go on to enter further training, education and employment,” she said.

“Enabling them to become active members of the community can have a positive effect on their lives, and open up opportunities to them.

“We hope to establish a bespoke service that pairs young people to the local labour market, developing skills local employers want and ensuring both parties benefit.

“If any local businesses would like to find out more about the programme or have any suggestions of how we can work together, please get in touch.”

Steve Davis, Pembrokeshire Youth Service Manager, said: “The Routes to Opportunity Project affords young people a fantastic chance to develop a range of skills and experience whilst playing a real and active role in delivering a host of services in their own community.

“Milford Youth Matters and Pembrokeshire Youth have worked together on a number of initiatives and successfully securing this money demonstrates what can be achieved through such a partnership approach.”

For more information, contact Sian Rendell at Milford Youth Matters, Milford Haven Youth Centre, Priory Road, on 01646 663137 or email yp73@hotmail.co.uk.