Archbishop of York backs Foundation For Jobs campaign

Dr John Sentamu appealed to the whole of society to do its bit in helping, particularly young people, into work, and urged people not to turn their backs on the situation, which he called a “national disgrace”.

The Press’s Foundation For Jobs campaign will provide free advertising for job seekers and businesses, and will work with organisations across the city to promote apprenticeships, internships and job creation.

Dr Sentamu said it was important to give all the support we can to help people into work.

He said: “Unemployment can be debilitating not just for the individual but also for our community. It is fantastic The Press is leading the way on giving support to those seeking work. Youth unemployment, particularly, is a blight on our society.

"The fact that around one million young people are not in employment, education or training in the UK is a national disgrace – and it is right we put our young people at the heart of our strategy to make our nation stronger.

“We all have a responsibility to care about the welfare of our local communities, it is good to see The Press recognising the role they have to play in this process.

“We should care, support and encourage those in need, not shut the door in their face.”

The campaign has also been backed by City of York Council and business, educational and political leaders in the city.

Denise Morrison, assistant principal for employer engagement at York College, said: “This campaign will highlight existing job and training opportunities in the city, helping job seekers and those wanting to gain further training and qualifications. Employment is key for our students and York College has an important role to play in creating partnerships with employers.”

Nigel Adams, MP for Selby and Ainsty, also backed the campaign, saying: “It’s a good initiative by The Press to offer free advertising for job opportunities and I would encourage employers to get behind it too.”