YOUNG people desperate to find work have had a taste of running their own business – and you can help support them this weekend.
On Sunday, members of the Passport To Success Enterprise Programme are holding a fundraising car boot sale, with all proceeds being donated to charity.
The event is part of a community learning course held at the Freeman Street Resource and Community Centre, in Kent Street, Grimsby, which aims to help young people find a path into work.
Members of the team behind the car boot are all looking for employment and have organised the event as part of a unit on enterprise. Teaching assessor Kevin Oflin has been working with the young people on the project for six weeks.
He said: "They are all doing really well.
"They are embracing the project and everyone is playing their part and contributing.
"There are lots of factors affecting employment for young people.
"One big thing is the fact they are competing against so many more people now and there is very little employment about.
"Employers aren't taking youngsters on and it is difficult for them to get quality work placements so they can get experience.
"They are really up against it."
Organising the car boot has given them a taste of running their own business and developing their skills in marketing, advertising and finances.
Along with improving the young people's CVs, interview techniques, IT and communication skills, it has also helped to address issues surrounding low self-esteem and confidence.
Kerri Gayfar, 18, from Grimsby, suffers with anxiety and at one stage was too intimidated to work.
Now she is looking forward to completing the course and getting on the career ladder.
She said: "It has taught me how to work with others, which I have never been very keen on doing because of my anxiety problems.
"Because this is a small group, I can get on with everyone and I already feel more confident.
"Before this course I found it hard to even get out of bed in the morning, now I am just looking forward to getting a job."
Mr Oflin added: "This course helps build confidence and makes them realise they have got skills, that they are employable and hopefully, they will be able to find work."
The car boot sale will take place this Sunday at Freeman Street Resource and Community Centre.
Gates open to sellers at 7.30am and the public at 9am.
It costs £4 for a car and £6 for a trailer and booking is essential. Contact 07974 746997.
