Barking and Dagenham Council have launched an initiative to reduce the numbers of young people who aren’t in education, employment or training.

Businesses who promote work experience, work-related learning and apprenticeships will now be able to get a ‘Working for Young People’ kitemark to recognise the work they are doing.

Young people will be involved with assessing businesses who apply for the kitemark to judge whether they are worthy recipients.

Cllr Cameron Geddes. cabinet member for economic and social development, said: “The partnership pledge allows local businesses to be recognised for playing such a big role in providing opportunities for youngsters in the borough. “They now have the chance to develop their skills and showcase their talents through work experience, work-related learning and apprenticeships and we will receive crucial feedback on how they are progressing.”

The logo for the kitemark was designed by students from Technical Skills Academy.