BATTLE lines have been drawn in the fight against youth unemployment in the Borders.

And so far, after less than six months, the council’s Youth Employment Scotland scheme has helped more than 40 into work.

The local authority funds half the salary on each position for the first six months of the new contract.

Since starting in September more and more companies are coming forward.

Councillor Stuart Bell, who fronts the Economic Development department, told us: “I am delighted with the progress of the scheme and the fact that over 40 job opportunities have now been created for young people in the Borders.

“We are very aware how difficult it is currently for young people to find a job and get positive work experience. These six month placements will help them get a foothold on the career ladder and after their placement, either continue with their existing employer or put them in a better situation to move onto other employment opportunities.” As well as providing wage subsidies, business and employment advice is also available through local agencies such as Business Gateway, Skills Development Scotland and JobCentre Plus.

The only clause is that it is for the employment of young people aged from 16 to 24 who have been unemployed for up to six months.

Amongst the firms who have taken up the offer is holiday letting company Unique Cottages, based in Newtown St Boswells.

The company had identified a need for additional office and administration support and created a new post within its web-based service.

After initially registering interest Amber Swinton, Property Manager at Unique Cottages, requested some assistance in creating the post and recruiting suitable candidates.

As a result, the company employed Tom Pownall, who had previously been on a training programme with SBC and was keen to build his experience within an office environment.

Tom, who comes from Kelso, started his new job in December.

Amber said: “I am delighted we have been able to take on Tom. As a growing business, the additional support was critical and Tom will be invaluable in providing the additional office and admin assistance we need.” As well as the 50 per cent wage subsidy for 26 weeks, the YES scheme provides ongoing support for both employers and employees.

In the case of Tom and Unique Cottages, the plan is initially to provide IT and Photoshop training and later in the year to embark on a Modern Apprenticeship.

Amber added: “We had been planning to recruit an additional employee. The YES Scheme was a good incentive by helping with financial support for wages.

“The additional guidance and support for recruitment, training and development has also been really helpful. We have been made aware of training opportunities we were not familiar with and it has certainly helping us to develop a skills and development programme for Tom.” Funding of £250,000 has been confirmed from the Scottish Government and the European Union, which will support up to 80 job placements in the Borders.

The YES Scheme is open for applications until March 31 with job placements running until the end of September.