Harlesden event organised by Trades Union Congress and Brent Youth TUC

The borough’s youth unemployment crisis will be directly addressed by young people in Harlesden this weekend during a rally to tackle the problem.

The event, on Saturday, December 8, which is organised by Trades Union Congress (TUC) and Brent Youth TUC, will encourage 16-27-year-olds, to talk about the issues facing them and how best to take action.

In Brent, nearly seven per cent of 16-24 year-olds are claiming job seekers allowance while just 3.75 per cent of young people have found long term employment, through the government’s Work Programme.

A minimum target of 5.2 per cent was outlined for this point in the scheme.

David Braniff-Herbert, TUC’s local organiser said: “We need to see action from our local and national politicians – young people are not working”

Cllr Krupa Sheth (Lab), who is Brent’s youngest ever councillor at 21 and helped to organise the event, said: “As a university student in London and a young councillor in Brent I have seen my friends and my residents trying to deal with the constant dread of unemployment and endless worrying about what quality of life the future will hold in a time of �9,000 tuition fees. It’s time to do something positive.”

Cllr Zaffar Van Kalwala (Lab), a Stonebridge ward councillor, told the Times: “It has never been a more important time to support young people into employment, apprenticeships and training opportunities.

“Tackling youth unemployment is a major concern in the current economic climate so we are delighted to be hosting the TUC event in Brent.”

A charter for youth unemployment will also be launched, which will focus on five points, a job guarantee, action on apprenticeships, quality work experience, welfare reform and practical support.

The event begins at 11am at the Harlesden Methodist Church in High Street, Harlesden.

For more information and to sign up to the event email LondonYouth@TUC.org.uk or call: 0207 467 1283.