A £200,000 arts programme is helping unemployed young people across Oxfordshire gain new qualifications and skills.

The multi-arts programme (Map) is open to people with an interest in arts who are over 16 and not in employment or education.

It is funded by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) through the European Social Fund.

As a result of taking part in the programme, Ben Smith, 17, of Carterton, is now starting a full-time art and design course at Abingdon and Witney College.

He said: "I didn't know what I wanted to do before I started Map, but now I have a direction I want to go in.

"I also used to be anxious but now I get on with people. Through my projects my friends have seen what I can do.

"I had some challenging moments, but I was encouraged by my tutor to keep going and not give up."

Ben Johnston, Map development worker with Oxfordshire County Council, said: "Ben really got stuck into Map and used it as an opportunity to learn new skills and express himself.

"He now believes in himself and is ready to tackle the next stage in his life."

Activities available through the programme include music technology, creative writing, film-making, graphic design, visual arts, performance and photography. The courses are run by the county council at centres in Banbury, Witney and Bicester.

The LSC is responsible for all post-16 education in England other than the university sector.

David Ansell, executive director of the LSC for Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire and Berkshire, said: "We are delighted with how this project is helping young people gain new skills and confidence, and take the next step in achieving their goals."

For details, call Ben Johnston on 01993 706487 or visit www.map-project.co.uk