Jobs Taskforce Breaks Down Barriers

Saturday, 17 May 2025, 7:22 pm
Article: David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

In a challenging job market, a local youth employment scheme is helping to break down the barriers for young people.

Waimakariri Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) co-ordinator Lyn Blair said the scheme is enjoying some success in placing young people jobs, despite the competitive labour market.

‘‘There are a lot more young people contacting me looking for support.

‘‘They have experienced multiple rejections from applications and are competing with increased numbers of applicants for every job.

‘‘While there are jobs out there, there is more competition in the labour market, so we need to make sure that our MTFJ clients are ‘work ready’ and can stand out in the interview process.’’

She said the MTFJ programme arranged for a young person participate in a work visit with a local business last year, which eventually led to a job.

‘‘While there were no employment opportunities available at the time, they gained valuable skills and were encouraged to volunteer locally in a similar field.

‘‘This experience not only helped them develop additional skills but also provided them with a strong referee.’’

Ms Blair said the MTFJ programme not only organised the initial work visit, but also supported the young person in obtaining the restricted drivers’ licence.

The Waimakariri MTJF scheme is funded for a target of 25 sustainable job placements (in a full-time job for more than 91 days) and has already exceeded the target.

Young people have been placed in retail, hospitality, labouring, construction, contracting and driving jobs, as well as trades and apprenticeships.

‘‘We currently have over 60 young people on our books,’’ Ms Blair said.

‘‘There has been a steady increase in numbers, both because of the labour market and because there is increased general awareness of the programme in our district.’’

Youth unemployment is much higher than the overall unemployment rate, with 13.6 percent of young people nationally not in employment, education or training, compared to the unemployment rate of 5.1%.

In Waimakariri, 10.4% of young people are registered as not in employment, education or training, while the overall unemployment rate is 3.5%.

Ms Blair said the MTFJ programme helped young people to prepare for the workforce, provided pastoral support and helped with some of the costs of employment.

Support included helping to write CVs, cover letters, job searching, and assisting with gaining drivers’ licences, and other licences such as forklift and Class 2 truck licences.

Careers advice, work experience, volunteering experience, personal development, employer introductions and short courses were also available.

Funding was available to assist with the costs of work gear or tools which may be required.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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