Youth Guarantee helping Wirral young people into jobs and training
Young people in Wirral are gaining employment, developing skills and boosting their confidence thanks to support from the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer (YGT).
The programme targets young people aged 18 to 21 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). It ensures that they can overcome barriers to work and learning, get training and build confidence that will help them find a stable job.
Launched by the Government last year, the Liverpool City Region was selected as one of eight pilot areas.
The YGT brings together Wirral Council, local employers, training providers and support services to ensure those who are NEET can get work experience to develop skills. As a result, it may lead to employment or further learning.
Participants are challenged, motivated and inspired, which allows them to grow and widen knowledge and interest.
Sam is one of the success stories. He learnt personal and social development skills from his mentor before being placed with Elevate Education Business Partnership – a YGT partner - for employment guidance.
Sam developed his CV and cover letter, underwent job search and application sessions and mock interviews to overcome nerves.
Sam was already volunteering with an animal charity, so his skills and passion for opportunities within animal welfare were explored by Wirral Council. It led to Sam gaining a paid role of 20 hours per week with the charity.
I can’t thank Elevate enough for all the support I have received. They helped build my confidence especially when doing application forms.
Also, the mock interview has helped me and how to answer questions. I am in such a better place. Thank you!
While training, Sam’s confidence grew noticeably, his communication skills improved, and he consistently showed reliability and commitment in attending appointments and engaging with the support provided.
Another young person who gained employment was an 18-year-old who had left a previous course at college.
It was arranged for him to attend a Construction Skills Certification Scheme course with Nobody Left Behind CIC in Birkenhead.
Afterwards, he was asked to interview for a roofing job. He was prepped by his mentor and successfully landed the role.
His mum said:
I’m so proud of him and if only you knew of the years of struggle I had with him. It’s a really big deal – thanks so much for helping him.
Annie was given the assistance to rebuild her confidence through the YGT.
She had previously had a negative employment experience and struggled with anxiety.
Annie was able to gain access to a mentor where they created a plan to support her short and long-term goals.
She began to attend activities such as vision board workshops and wellbeing lunches, along with a gardening club where she became a key member and developed a passion to grow her own fruit and vegetables.
Annie also started volunteering with the RSPCA, an experience she describes as “joyous”. On her journey, she has had significant strides and is tackling her issues.
This programme is something that is absolutely amazing and needed for people like myself to overcome their battles.
I constantly have people who have known me for a while tell me that I look and act completely different in the best way.
It’s honestly so nice to hear that people can notice to effort I have been putting in to almost reclaim my body from anxiety.
The YGT is in place to help you take your next step – from personalised support to live job opportunities with local employers.
For more information about this scheme and how it can help you build your future, visit the Wirral YGT website and complete the short form.
If you have any questions, you can email infoyouthtrailblazer@wirral.gov.uk.
