Businesses are being urged to sign up to a Future Ready Pledge pooling offers of training, jobs and work experience which can reach young people seeking a leg up into work.
The project gives employers who join access to a pool of eager, young talent, support in shaping meaningful opportunities and an opportunity to drive inclusive growthn in Stoke-on-Trent.
It’s been launched a powerful citywide partnership between YMCA North Staffordshire, Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, YES Consortium and Made in Stoke.
YMCA North Staffordshire chief executive Danny Flynn said: “We want to work with businesses to build that vital support network and scale those life chances across the city and beyond. We are hoping to grow work experience, taster days, apprenticeships, jobs and need employers’ help to invest in all our futures”
The initiative is a response to growing calls for fairer access to opportunity in Stoke-on-Trent, where many young people face barriers to employment due to economic hardship, lack of experience, or limited networks.
Businesses of all sizes and sectors are encouraged to get involved — whether by offering a one-day shadowing opportunity, a week’s work experience, a paid role, or simply opening their doors for a taster session.
Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: ‘It’s great to see the business community stepping up to support our city’s young people. Many young people in this area need an extra boost to get ahead on the job market: they don’t always have the support from parents or the network to guide them through the interview process or make sure they get work experience.
“It’s the council’s experience that it is these young people that have so much potential and can make excellent employees. So this new campaign is set to benefit businesses as well as the youngsters of the area.
“We want to make our city a great place to live and work for all residents. So, it’s a big thank you everyone involved in getting this project off the ground.”
To sign up or find out more, visit https://staffordshirechambers.co.uk/the-future-ready-pledge/
or contact nicky.twemlow@ymcans.org.uk
