Merseyside Police has teamed up with Russell Taylor Group to launch a major new initiative to kick-start the employment hopes of girls in Wirral.
As part of Leasowe United Community Day in Wallasey next Wednesday (August 17), the force’s Wirral Community Team will be working alongside the technical recruitment company as they put young women at the forefront of a campaign to divert them into further education, apprenticeships and employment.
Operating from the event’s Talent Tent, Russell Taylor Group will be partnering up with local training providers and community groups when they will introduce young women living on the Leasowe estate to life-changing opportunities and inspire them to take their first career steps.
Top sporting action will also form part of the day as around 150 young sportswomen, aged between 12 and 17 from all over Wirral, compete in an all-female football tournament, designed to build their confidence and realise their potential both on and off the pitch.
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said, “Merseyside Police are committed to working with our partners and communities and Leasowe United is a great example of what can be achieved when working together.
“Initiatives like this that offer our young people an opportunity to bring all their potential to the fore are so important. I hope this inspires them to embrace new challenges and to take the steps to further education or into the world of work.”
Leasowe United has evolved from work by Constables Alison Inman and Claire Ryan aimed at creating safer communities and greater opportunities for those who live and work locally.
Peter Russell, chairman of Russell Taylor Group, which is acting as main sponsor, said, “As someone who was born in Birkenhead and worked in Moreton for nearly 20 years, I’ve spent all my life helping to guide young people – particularly those who are vulnerable or with special needs – to raise their aspirations and to develop themselves and their careers. So I was really excited when Merseyside Police asked our business and our partners to get involved.
“The event’s aim was to leave a legacy of hope for young women, making it so much more than a sporting event. Wth this in mind, we set up a support team of coaches, inspirational achievers and employment recruiters to be there on the day with workshops and one-to-one advice for all those who want to kick-start or reshape their careers – to really make a difference to young lives.”
Alison, part of the Wallasey-based local policing team, added, “The football tournament will prove how much sporting talent there is among local girls – so many role models are out there, particularly now that there’s a huge focus on the success of the Lionesses in the Women’s Euro Championship.
“The Talent Tent has been designed to inspire them by taking part in workshops, introducing them to successful women in business and give them an insight into careers, apprenticeships and development.
“So many life-changing chances are awaiting these young women and our community partnership with Russell Taylor Group will give them confidence to take on new challenges which will hopefully open many doors for them.”
Leasowe United will be held at Leasowe Recreation Centre, Twickenham Drive, Wirral CH46 1PF, on Wednesday, August 17 between 10am-4pm.
Image: Constable Alison Inman and Peter Russell
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