The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer will continue to support young people, aged 18 to 21, who are not in education, employment, or training, and living in Tees Valley, following a successful pilot year that attracted interest from more than 1,700 young people.
One of the first people to take advantage of Trailblazers was 21-year-old Robert Barker who went to Hartlepool’s Alice House Hospice.
He said at the time: “I have taken part in placements in the past, but the Trailblazer scheme has enabled me to work at the hospice, which is a warm and friendly environment.
“From the moment I came to work here, I was treated with respect and dignity. This placement has helped reaffirm my skills, build confidence and allowed me to focus on what I enjoy. I have also learned more about hospice care and the difference it makes to the local community.”
Every young person who takes part will be guaranteed a meeting with a dedicated Key Worker, who will work with them to understand their needs and connect them with the right support.
This could include personalised careers advice and guidance, help with job searching, and training to build confidence and communication skills.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “The first year of the programme showed what can be achieved when we back our young people with the right support at the right time. We have huge projects delivering jobs now and we want all our young people to access these opportunities.”
He added: “We’ve already seen so many find opportunities with businesses across Hartlepool, Teesside and Darlington, gaining the skills, confidence and experience needed to succeed. That’s why we’re delighted to open applications again and help even more young people access the support, training and work opportunities available through the programme.”
The programme is being led by the Tees Valley Combined Authority and delivered by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and the region’s local authorities.
This arrangement will continue in the project’s second year.
Young people, aged 18 to 21, not currently in education, employment, or training, and living in Tees Valley, are eligible to apply.
Companies wishing to express an interest in joining the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer should go here, while young people interested in the programme can register their details here.
