Working Futures project offers help and support for local, young unemployed people

Working Futures is a new project, part funded by the European Social Fund and Youth Employment Initiative to provide a personalised, flexible package of support to help young people aged 16 to 29, who are currently not in employment, education or training (NEET), to move towards a better future.

The programme will be delivered by a partnership of 22* not-for-profit training providers spanning the six boroughs of Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens, Halton and Wirral, with the ability to offer localised delivery in key areas of need

Led by Greenbank College, in collaboration with VOLA Consortium, the proven multi-agency approach, founded on partners that really care about their local communities, will ensure that those in need of additional support to help develop their skills and find work will receive the best possible service; whatever their starting point.

Assistance will include employability and skills development, work experience and wider barrier removal and the time on the programme will be dependent upon the needs of the individual.

Gerry Kinsella, Greenbank’s Chief Executive said:

“We are delighted to have been awarded this contract and to be able to offer this vital service to young people and make a real difference to local communities.

All of the partners have a vital role to play in ensuring the programme’s success and it is an honour to be leading such an experienced partnership.”

Stuart McGrory, Consortium Manager at VOLA added:

“This funding is fantastic news for Liverpool City Region and all its young, unemployed adults. As a collaboration of community based, not-for-profit organisations, we understand the needs of young people in our local communities and are fully committed to helping them find work, or move in to education or training as a stepping stone to the labour market.”

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Editor’s Notes*:

• The project is receiving up to £2,760,000 of funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) and Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) as part of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme in England. The Department for Work and Pensions is the Managing Authority for the England ESF programme. Established by the European Union ESF funds help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support skills development, employment and job creation, social inclusion and local community regenerations. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.
• Delivery partners are Alt Valley Community Trust, Beechwood Community Trust, Big Help Project, Brouhaha International, The Community IT Company, Crawford House, Employability Solutions, Everton Development Trust, Everton in the Community, Local Solutions, MPH Training, North Liverpool Regeneration Company, Phoenix Community & Youth Project, Power in Partnership, Rotunda Ltd, St Helens Chamber, Sefton EBP, Tomorrow's People Trust, Vauxhall Neighbourhood Council (MACTAC), Wirral Autistic Society and Youth Federation.
• More detailed information about the programme is available from http://workingfutures.org.uk/