YOUNG people in Harlow are being encouraged to kick start their careers as part of Work Experience Week.

The annual national initiative takes place this week (10 – 16 October) and aims to make young adults aware of the benefits of getting employment experience.

With the help of more than 4,500 companies to offer placements in healthcare, construction, IT, retail and almost anything in between, Essex County Council’s Youth Service works with up to 500 school and college pupils across the county every year to help them gain vital practice and training in their desired fields.

The council has already helped more than 300 young people find placements since the launch of a new walk-in advice hub in Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, last year.

Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Work experience is a great way to get a taste of what it’s like to be a part of the world of employment.

“Our team do a fantastic job of offering young people the chance to start climbing the career ladder and getting ahead of the game, so I fully encourage them to get involved.

“Whether you have a career in mind already or just want to have a go at something new, Work Experience Week could be the first step on your dream career path.”

You can be part of the online conversation using the hashtag #WEWeek2016, and let us know what you’re doing via @Essex_CC – we’ll retweet the best posts.

To contact the team to discuss a placement or seek career advice, call 033301 38955 or email [email protected]