A two-year project that will look to help unemployed people under 30 will be supported by funding of up to £51 million.

The Black Country Impact project is a partnership between four councils and the Black Country Talent Match organisation. It has £34 million of European Union funding, £8 million from the Big Lottery Fund, and funding from business.

Dudley Council leader Pete Lowe (pictured) said: “There can be no doubt that these are challenging times for some young adults in the Black Country. Through this project, we are determined to tackle the barriers that may be preventing some young adults from becoming all they can.

“Through specialised services ranging from coaching to managed work placements, Black Country Impact will give our young adults the best employability prospects for the future.”