THE North East’s landmark youth employment programme, Generation NE has unveiled the latest face to join its team of dedicated business advisors.
Claire Cook joins Generation NE as a business advisor responsible for helping Gateshead’s SME community to grow by connecting with the workforce of tomorrow, and offering tailored and impartial support and advice.
The youth employment programme, which was launched in February 2015, is supporting the region’s SMEs to strengthen their businesses by increasing sustainable employment opportunities for up to 2,000 young people aged between 17 and 24 years.
As a former employment advisor and economic development officer, Claire brings to the role a unique insight into Generation NE’s client base and their requirements from the programme and is experienced in helping unemployed residents back into employment.
Claire said: “Generation NE has seen unprecedented success following its launch earlier this year and I am proud to be joining its team of business advisors. Often for many SMEs taking the next step that will allow their business to grow can feel like a daunting task, however we are here to help them every step of the way by providing tailored and impartial support whilst also ensuring that the growth is sustainable.
“The Generation NE team is working with businesses across a wide range of sectors and I’m looking forward to helping the North East business community thrive off the back of this support.”
Generation NE is a £4.5 million collaboration between five local authorities – including Newcastle, Gateshead, Durham, North Tyneside and Northumberland, and forms part of the North East LEP’s Growth Deal.
Councillor Grant Davey, employability and inclusion lead for the Combined Authority and leader of Northumberland County Council, added: “Since the launch of Generation NE we have received an unprecedented response from the business community across the five local authority areas and it is fantastic to welcome Claire as a business advisor for Gateshead.
“Claire joins Generation NE’s team of business advisors which has already supported hundreds of local businesses to make connections with the workforce of the future to create sustainable job opportunities for the region’s young people.”
For more information on how Generation NE is helping the region’s SME community visit www.GenerationNE.co.uk or call 0191 230 0491.