A service to help improve young people's confidence and skills has been launched in Northallerton.

More than 20 organisations have committed to working together for the launch of Entry into Employment - known as e2e.

The scheme gives practical help to young people aged 16 to 19 who did not do well at school or who face personal difficulties, such as living on their own, making a new start after being in trouble with the law, or who need to improve their skills and confidence.

Funded by the Learning and Skills Council, e2e has established a drop-in and training centre in Northallerton at Romanby Road Suite, 159 to 160 High Street - next door to the Durham Ox pub.

Local education authority officer Judith Stanley: "I was impressed with the launch of e2e in this area. They got all the right people together and listened to the issues and are focused on filling the gaps.

"I am passionate about the need for all our agencies to work together - only this way can we find the solutions that young people need."

A spokesman for e2e, Steve Johnson, said: "We would welcome hearing from anyone working with young people in this area, from foster parents who may still be in touch with 16 to 19 year olds, to youth workers and other support teams.

"We will be holding regular events and would be happy for others to visit us at the shop in Northallerton High Street."

Brompton teenager Jamie Barningham has become one of the first young people to receive help from e2e. He was invited to give his ideas at the launch.

He said: "We are really encouraged to learn skills through things we enjoy. That could be motorbikes for some people, Eminem or the theatre. We learn at our own speed and it is flexible. I am feeling much more confident and it won't be long before I can look for a job."

For information about e2e, call 0800 515547.