By Abigail Frazer 

YOUNG people from across Bolton are being urged to apply for a place on a Prince's Trust programme.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is recruiting unemployed people aged 16-25 in Bolton for the12-week course.

The programme, starting on January 25 and running from Bolton Central Fire Station, gives young people qualifications and skills to make them more employable.

Bolton Central Fire Station has run 13 successful sessions, with the majority of young people gaining work or going on to further education.

Carol Morris, the Prince's Trust Team Leader for Bolton, said: “Quite a few young people come to us and they are lacking confidence, they might have not done well at school, or have mental health issues, there may have been troubles with the police or housing.

“As a result they are not sometimes work ready, they just need that support and confidence building.”

Successful applicants achieve the Prince’s Trust, Employment, Teamwork and Community Qualification and a PEARL Qualification from Manchester College if they complete the course.

Ms Morris, who is offering 12 places on the course, said: “We’re open to everyone 16-25, although there is a push for 16-18 year olds for the first two courses of this year.”

The Prince’s Trust team work to make the course as accessible as possible, so taking part does not affect benefits and all-day bus passes are offered to help with travel.

The programme gives people the opportunity to go on a teambuilding residential course and engage with their local community through projects based in Bolton.

Previous teams have chosen to work with a number of local community groups including Bolton Blind Society and Bolton Hospice.

At the Harmony Youth Project, the team redecorated the main hall and cyber café having packed bags at supermarkets to pay for all the painting supplies.

During their residential, the team works together to complete outdoor activities like raft building and orienteering.

There are opportunities to learn functional english and mathematics and all participants complete a three-day in depth first aid course whilst learning other practical skills.

To apply for the Prince’s Trust Team Course email Carol Morris on morrisc@manchesterfire.gov.uk or phone on 07764 156 725.