BUSINESS workshops have been held in Ryedale to help unemployed youngsters.

The district council, in partnership with innovation specialists SCY, has held a programme of interactive workshops and mentoring sessions for businesses in the district.

Julian Rudd, the council’s head of economy and infrastructure, said: “The aim is to help Ryedale businesses to be as efficient and competitive as they can be.

“Although our unemployment rates are relatively low, Ryedale has some problems with youth unemployment and low wage levels. We want our businesses to thrive and so help to tackle these challenges.”

The workshops focused on strategic planning, marketing, social media and accountancy. Ten companies took part in the workshops.

One business leader, Sally Armstrong, said: “I found the workshops invaluable. Each one left me buzzing with ideas and keen to put them into action.”

She added: “One of the facilitators was so inspirational that I have taken her on as a consultant.”

SYC business mentor Phil McTaggart said: “It was good to meet ambitious businesses and we look forward to working more closely with them in one-to-one sessions.”

The Ryedale workshops were supported by the European Regional Development Fund through SCY’s specialist services for business growth and innovation project.