"Defence 2nd Chance"
“To provide better help for young people - particularly those with problems - in finding employment, I have decided to create a voluntary civilian service, combining support and training. 50,000 youngsters will benefit from it in 2007.” President Jacques Chirac, radio and television broadcast, Paris, 14.11.05)
On 14 November, President Jacques Chirac announced his determination to establish a system of support and training for young people with problems, at the heart of which lies the "Defence 2nd Chance" initiative. This is a joint initiative of the French Defence and Employment, Social Cohesion and Housing Ministries, designed to promote the integration of 18-21 year-olds into society and the workplace. The young men and women are given free board and lodging, are paid a wage (about €300 a month) and follow behavioural management, education and vocational training courses. These are spread over a period ranging from six months to two years. The first six months are spent on "the basics" of reading, writing and maths. Alongside these courses, the youngsters also learn how to live in society and also take part in sporting activities. The next six months are devoted to vocational training, enabling those who so wish to have the chance to reach the level of a CAP [certificat d’aptitude professionnel - a French qualification sanctioning training in a specific vocational skill], giving them concrete job prospects. The accommodation and courses are provided in Defence Ministry rehabilitation centres (EIDs (établissements d’insertion de la défense) of which the first has opened in Montry (Seine-et-Marne). These are staffed by former servicemen and women, State registered teachers, private-sector trainers and rehabilitation professionals. By the end of 2005, four new centres will be open, accommodating 700 youngsters. The aim is to be able to train 20,000 a year./.
Last updated: 23.10.2005