Trailblazing programme aims to unlock opportunity

A “landmark” new training and employment programme is aiming to get more young people into work and “unlock their employment potential”.

Tees Valley has been selected as one of eight UK areas to pilot a Youth Guarantee Trailblazer, backed by up to £5 million in Government funding. 

The programme targets 18–21-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training, offering a mix of paid placements and unpaid work tasters.

Run in partnership with the five Tees Valley local authorities, with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council having been appointed as the lead delivery partner, the scheme also provides one-to-one support and grants for IT equipment, internet connection, training or travel costs.

Organisers are encouraging both eligible young people and local businesses to get involved, as the project aims to address the experience gap and help young people across the region build their confidence and take the next step towards employment.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “This is a hugely important programme to support our young people and help them take advantage of the employment opportunities we are bringing to Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.

“However, we can only do this with the support of our brilliant businesses and we need their involvement to make sure this Trailblazer is a success in helping drive forward the careers of these young people.

“It will not only be the young people who benefit, this will also help our firms develop the next generation of talent, who can provide the innovation and energy to help drive companies to the next level.” 

Councillor Lisa Evans, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council leader and Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet portfolio holder for employment, education and skills, added: “Having no or little work experience can be a real barrier to entering the world of work or accessing higher level education and training.

“This scheme will give more young people across the Tees Valley chance to gain good quality workplace experience, through paid, flexible placements and taster sessions. 

“By exploring these opportunities, we hope more young people will be able to improve their skills and boost their confidence – unlocking their employment potential.

“With help on offer in the form of a key worker plus grants available for equipment the scheme will help those in need of support to flourish and find a career which suits them best.”

To find out more about the programme and to apply, see here.

For businesses wanting more information and to sign up to provide a placement, see here.

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