THE PRIME Minister has launched a major new youth benefits policy at a Hove school this morning.

David Cameron unveiled new plans that will see 18 to 21-year-olds carry out up to 30 hours of community work a week in order to qualify for benefits at Blatchington Mill School in Nevill Close, Hove.

Mr Cameron said the new policy would mean unemployed 18-21 year olds “most at risk of spending a lifetime on welfare” will have to carry out community work from day one of their benefit claims as part of his party’s plans to “abolish long-term youth unemployment”.

The Prime Minister said he wanted to get rid of “that well-worn path from the school gate, down to the Job Centre, and onto a life on benefits”. Today’s announcement follows a previous commitment that the next Conservative Government will abolish Job Seeker’s Allowance for 18-21 year olds and replace it with a Youth Allowance.

The allowance will be time-limited to six months, after which claimants will be required to carry out an apprenticeship or daily community work for their benefits.

Speaking ahead of the speech, Mr Cameron said: “Our welfare reforms are a key part of our long-term economic plan. They are not just about saving money.

“They are about changing lives and making this a country that rewards work and gives everyone the chance of a better future.

“That is why we are taking further steps to help young people make something of their lives. “Our goal in the next Parliament is effectively to abolish long-term youth unemployment.

“For those 18-21 year-olds who have not been in employment, training or education for six months before they sign on, we are going to take intensive action.

“What these young people need is work experience and the order and discipline of turning up for work each day.

“So a Conservative government would require them to do daily community work from the very start of their claim, as well as searching for work.

“From day one they must realise that welfare is not a one-way street.

“Yes, we will help them, but there is no more something for nothing.

“They must give back to their community too.”