A new initiative hopes to help hundreds of unemployed young people in Swale find work.

Talent Match South East was launched at the beginning of the month for those aged 18-24 who have not had a job for more than 12 months.

Led by The Prince’s Trust, it aims to avert a skills crisis by working with local businesses to develop opportunities for the targeted group.

With more than 200 18 to 24-year-olds in Swale claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for more than six months, local agencies are now being encouraged to direct young people to the scheme so they can start getting the support they need to transform their lives.

They include AmicusHorizon, KATO, BITC and CXK.

Roberta Fullarton, of CXK, said: “We know that every person is different, so we’re going the extra mile to meet their needs by offering them individual, one-to-one support from a mentor who’ll work with them throughout their journey to achieve success.”

Mentor Sophie McDonald, a training officer for housing association AmicusHorizon, said: “I’m enjoying every minute. It’s a big commitment, but it’s very rewarding and there’s plenty of support available from other volunteers to bounce ideas off of or share concerns.

“Not only have I been able to provide support to the young people who need it most, but it’s also given me new skills and helped me to secure a new role within the company.”

Sheerness resident Ash Medhurst is being mentored by Sophie.

The 19-year-old said: “The initiative has really helped me to boost my confidence.

“When I was nervous about upcoming job interviews, my mentor was really helpful and conducted a mock interview with me; talking me through everything step-by-step.

“It really put me at ease and now I’ve got a job working at a local recycling plant.

“I’d definitely recommend Talent Match to other young people because it’ll help you get to where you want to be.”

Latest figures – for August – revealed the borough’s overall jobless total was 1,989 – the lowest in six years.

Leaving out the Faversham area, there are currently 1,748 people in Sittingbourne and Sheppey claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance.

n For more information visit www.princes-trust.org.uk/SEtalentmatch