The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce has called on its 500 members in Norwich to back an ambitious campaign aimed at dramatically cutting the number of out-of-work young people.

Chief executive Caroline Williams has written to the businesses to urge them to pledge their support to Norwich For Jobs.

The initiative, led by a steering group of Norfolk figures, wants local companies to increase a young person's chances of getting a job by offering apprenticeships, work experience, mock interviews and ensuring vacancies are advertised through the Job Centre Plus.

Mrs Williams said: 'It is great to see the Norwich for Jobs campaign getting off to such a good start.

'It is very positive to see so many chamber members already on their website pledging support and we are encouraging many more to join them.

'It is businesses who will be able to provide the jobs which our young people need and businesses who will work with our schools to help them understand the world of work. Businesses care passionately about Norfolk's young people and will give up their time.

'For instance over 120 are attending our event next week to work with our local MPs, schools and colleges, to come up with practical solutions.'

Norwich For Jobs fits well with the chamber's own theme for 2013: 'unlocking the potential of Norfolk's young people'.

Member Jeanette Wheeler, a partner at Birketts solicitors, said: 'We cannot afford to lose a generation of youngsters and condemn them to the ranks of unemployable because we have failed to create work experience and opportunities for them when they leave education.'

Don't miss the chance to find your perfect job by visiting Archant Norfolk's Jobs Fair at Norwich City Football Club on Thursday, March 7, 9am-6pm. Admission and car parking are free.

For more details, contact Alison White on 01603 772115 or email her at alison.white@archant.co.uk