YOUNGSTERS in Redditch are being offered the chance to broaden their horizons and potentially find work.

Redditch United Football Club has joined forces with Worcester Warriors rugby team to help transform the lives of 12 local 16 to 18 year olds.

The move is part of the HITZ programme – Premiership Rugby’s award-winning education and employability scheme.

It applies rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship to help young people develop important life skills and gain qualifications alongside experience.

The programme focuses on both physical and mental wellbeing, by allowing its young people to participate in several sporting activities.

Redditch United general manager, David Tittershill, said: “We are delighted to be joining forces with an established sporting club like Worcester Warriors to help get the youth of Redditch active and into employment.

"It is important that young people are given the chance to develop and realise their potential.

"We feel that HITZ is the perfect opportunity to do this and we look forward to continuing our commitment to the local community through this programme.”

The programme, held at The TRICO Stadium, concentrates on giving young people the skills and credentials that employers are looking for, including work experience and interview techniques.

It will last 12 to 14 weeks and there are no learning costs involved.

Anyone interested can email info@rufcacademy.co.uk or call 07854 886948.