A GROUP of young people have hailed a successful start to their placements at Trafford Council.

The group were taken on as part of the Government's Kickstart Scheme, a £2 billion fund intended to provide six-month placements to those at risk of unemployment due to coronavirus.

These Kickstarters have been working in different departments at Trafford Council since June or July, and are said to have impressed bosses with their 'talent, hard work and enthusiasm'.

They have also attracted praise from the council's executive members.

Cllr Mike Freeman, the council's executive member for Covid-19 recovery and reform, said: "Trafford Council has made helping young people a major priority and that's why we're so keen to be involved in this scheme.

"We're very keen to help as many young people into work as possible.

"The Covid-19 pandemic hit young people hard as it placed huge pressures on businesses and communities.

"I'm delighted that the Kickstarters have made such a fantastic start to their council placements," he added.

The Kickstarters themselves were also effusive about their experiences up until now.

Jamie Leigh Wright, who has been working in the council's HR department, said: "I'm delighted to say that the placement has been going well and I love what I'm doing at the council."

And Morgan Mister, who has been working in the council's health and social care recovery and reform department, said: "I've really enjoyed my time at Trafford Council so far. My work is really interesting and challenging at the same time. I love it here!"

Trafford Council is hoping to take on three more Kickstarters in the coming months.

For information, visit the council's website.