A regional daily has urged businesses on its patch to help young people get a foot on the career ladder.

The Liverpool Echo is urging firms on Merseyside to consider employing young workers and apprentices as part of its Liverpool Works campaign.

Earlier this year the Echo published research, conducted by regional publisher Trinity Mirror’s central data unit, which revealed Liverpool has the third highest rate of young people not in education, employment or training in England.

Over the past two months the Echo has highlighted how schemes like Marks & Spencer’s Marks & Start, supported by The Prince’s Trust, are making a real difference to young people’s lives and future prospects.

The Echo published its findings on youth unemployment in March

Carl Wood, managing director of Trinity Mirror North West, said: “Young people bring energy, enthusiasm, commitment and a fresh outlook to the workplace.

“They are the workforce of the future, and with companies in the region looking to grow and compete on the national and international stage going forward, it’s vital to harness their talents.

“It really is a win-win situation for both the young apprentice and the company who takes them on.”

Echo editor-in-chief Alastair Machray added: “We’re proud to have launched this campaign to give young people a chance of a great future.

“As a dad of children who are currently starting to forge their own way in the world, I want to make sure they get every bit of help available to them and seize every opportunity that is offered.”