COUNCIL chief Cllr Qada Zada paid a visit to his former school to announce a raft of polices to tackle youth unemployment and back 'Dudley jobs for Dudley people'.

Cllr Zada met with pupils at the Link Academy where he unveiled a series of unemployment busting measures.

The leader promised the creation of 150 apprenticeships, along with Dudley Council opening its door to work experience for young people aged 16 to 29.

He also highlighted plans to provide work experience for people who have been out of work for more than 12 months.

Councillor Qadar Zada, leader of the council, said: "This is a very clear proposal to bridge the gap between people and jobs. We have set ourselves an ambitious target to create 150 apprenticeships over the next three years which will equip people with the right skills they need for the workplace.

"The council is a big organisation with a range of trades which young people can explore and places will be available across all areas to make sure we support people into work.

"This area of work was one of my priorities when I became leader – supporting our young people, their families, creating jobs and ultimately, growing our local economy. It’s a case of Dudley jobs for Dudley people.”