hfrsA group of 15 young people from the Cheshunt area have become the fifth team to successfully complete the Prince’s Trust Team programme, run by Hertfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service.

The programme is a 12 week personal development course that helps unemployed 16-25 year olds develop the skills and experience, along with the confidence and motivation, to find work or go on to further education or training.

This is the fifth Cheshunt-based Team Programme the county council’s fire service has run in partnership with the Prince’s Trust. Three more programmes will run, starting in September based in Watford, Cheshunt and Hatfield.

Richard Thake, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “These young people should be very proud of what they’ve achieved over the last 12 weeks and I congratulate them for their hard work and perseverance.

“The Prince’s Trust Team programme demonstrates how the county council’s fire and rescue teams can lead by example and pro-actively engage with young people. The skills these youngsters gain can boost their confidence and motivation, helping them to find jobs. It’s a great example of how we are helping local people to thrive and prosper.”

All the candidates have now achieved a recognised Prince’s Trust qualification, which they were presented with by John Wood, Chief Executive of Hertfordshire County Council, at a ceremony on 6 August at the De Vere Hotel, Theobalds Park, in front of friends and family members.

One of the people taking part, James Lyons-Dee, 20, said: “The Prince’s Trust Team programme has given me confidence that I can get myself into work at the end of it. The practical activities have really helped develop my leadership skills and confidence. I liked working with everyone in the team and would recommend it in a heartbeat.”

The Prince’s Trust programme involves:
• a residential team-building week
• a community project
• interview and presentation skills
• help with CV writing
• help with gaining work experience placements and references.

For more information, or to apply for the next programme visit: www.hertsdirect.org/princestrust