YOUNG people are being offered help with transport to work by an innovative project launched in Okehampton on Saturday by West Devon and Torridge MP John Burnett.
West DEN's Getting There Project has bought ten economical 50cc scooters with support from the National Lottery's Community Fund. The vehicles will be loaned to young people who have problems getting to work. The project is also offering assistance with subsidised driving lessons and training in basic motor mechanics.
The launch of the scheme was also attended by West Devon mayor Robin Pike and Okehampton mayor Christine Marsh..
Project manager Max Jowett said: 'This is an exciting opportunity, providing access to employment for young people living in rural West Devon for whom private and public transport is not available.
'They can use the scooters for up to six months which will help secure jobs or places on training programmes. Driving lessons are arranged on an individual basis and the motor mechanics lessons are organised on demand.'
Getting There originated from West DEN's Ley of the Land youth project which has been working closely with disadvantaged young people in West Devon for the last four years.
Lack of suitable transport was found to be a major problem facing young people in their attempts to access training and employment.
West DEN's chairman of trustees Elaine Bentley said: 'This is an innovative and practical solution to a problem that won't go away by just talking about it. We should be giving every opportunity and encouragement to young people who wish to live and work in West Devon.'