Trailblazer challenge opens pathways to work

A “landmark” Tees Valley youth employment programme is already attracting hundreds of participants.

More than 700 young people have signed up to the UK Youth Guarantee Trailblazer, with almost 180 local businesses volunteering to provide placements. 

The initiative, backed by up to £5 million in funding, offers structured paid work placements and short taster sessions for 18-21-year-olds who are not in work, education or training.

Robyn Bulmer, from Norton, discovered the scheme after visiting the hub to explore pathways into the world of work.

She said: “I was just genuinely wanting to know if someone would be able to help me find an apprenticeship, or something in business.

“I met up with Sophie, who works in the hub, and she told me about the Trailblazer scheme.

“I honestly thought I was going to have to pay for it when I heard about it.

“She was telling me about the opportunities to get a placement.

“I heard about the six months (placement) and thought: ‘I’m definitely doing that’.”

Pre-placement training sessions are taking place at the Stockton-on-Tees Employment and Training Hub, preparing participants for roles across a wide range of regional companies. 

Businesses joining the scheme will also receive paid support to deliver placements, helping tackle the region’s work experience gap.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “This programme is absolutely vital in giving our young people the skills and opportunities they need to build great careers right here in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.

“But we can’t do it alone and we need the backing of our fantastic local businesses.

“Their involvement will make sure this Trailblazer delivers real results and sets our young people on the right path.

“And it’s not just about supporting the next generation – our firms will also gain massively by developing fresh talent, bringing in the ideas, drive and innovation that will help take their companies to the next level.”

Councillor Lisa Evans, leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for employment, education and skills, added: “It’s great to see this scheme getting underway. 

“Having no or little work experience can be a big barrier to entering work or higher-level education and training, and it’s something we hear time and again from our young people.

“This is giving our young people good quality workplace experience through paid placements with flexibility and tasters too.

“It’s also offering businesses the support, guidance and equipment they need to provide these placements and reap long-term benefits.

“By taking on these opportunities, we hope this gives our young people the confidence and the skills they need to really unlock their potential to find a career which suits them.”

Tees Valley is one of eight UK locations selected for the programme, which provides tailored guidance, funding for IT equipment or training and dedicated key workers to support young people in accessing job and training opportunities.

Young people and businesses interested in participating are encouraged to sign up to take part in this fast-growing initiative.

For young people, click here. For businesses wanting more information on the programme, see here.

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