An invitation to take part in the Government's New Deal to tackle youth and long-term unemployment, has gone out to employers in the Bradford area.

Businesses are being invited to attend one of two conferences at the Cedar Court Hotel, Odsal, tomorrow and the Three Sisters Hotel, Haworth on Thursday.

Employers will be able to learn more about New Deal and how they can provide opportunities for young job-seekers in the Bradford district.

Consultations have already taken place with representatives from the local authorities, education, environmental and voluntary groups.

Paul Armstrong, Employment Service District Manager for Bradford, said: "There is a framework from which New Deal has to be delivered, but there is considerable scope within that framework to tailor it to meet the specific needs of our locality.

Guests invited to speak about New Deal alongside Mr Armstrong include local MP's Terry Rooney and Ann Cryer.

New Deal will start in the Bradford area next month. It provides help for 18 to 24-year-olds. Services include a gateway process to help with job search and careers advice.

The support could lead to one of four options: employment, full-time education, voluntary work or six months work experience with the Environmental Task Force.

From June 1998 New Deal also aims to help people aged over 25, who have been unemployed for two years or more.

Further details about the conferences or New Deal is available by contacting Bradford 338080.

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