Kirklees Together

We are launching a new pilot to support residents aged 15-25 to engage in training and employment opportunities.

Who will be delivering the new pilot?

The pilot which is called ‘Ignite’ will be delivered by our partners Employability Solutions and C&K Careers.

What is the aim of the pilot?

The aim of the pilot is to support those who don’t have any access to conventional education or employment opportunities, or those at risk of engaging in antisocial behaviour due to their circumstances. 

Employability Solutions will work with participants to build their confidence and self-esteem through a range of community engagement activities. By exposing them to new experiences and opportunities the pilot aims to raise their aspirations, and increase their prospects of securing training or employment in the future.

The dedicated team of youth, education and employment specialists will also make sure each person feels in control of their own journey and is supported to make decisions for themselves along the way.

The pilot also provides flexible, tailored support for participant’s social, emotional and mental health.

When is the launch?

Ignite launched on 1 November 2019 and will provide support for 30 individuals over the next 12 months. The programme is part funded by the European Social Fund and the Youth Engagement and Progression Programme.

Karl Battersby Strategic Director Economy and Infrastructure said:

“This pilot is an expansion of the successful Works Better 15-25 programme which has already supported young adults across Kirklees into work or education.

We will be taking what we have learnt from the earlier delivery programmes and refining it for those who need that bit of extra support.  We want to make sure everyone regardless of their current circumstances has the opportunity to achieve their ambitions.”

Claire Cook, Chief Executive at Employability Solutions commented:

“We need to ensure that we are creating a safe and cohesive environment for young people to come to us, whatever their circumstance. So we can help them to realise their potential and take them out of the current situation that is potentially holding them back.

Each person will be supported with an ‘end goal’ in mind whether it’s eventually finding work or going into education or training.

We want to ensure that candidates have exposure to local employers, willing to give some of their time to talk about how they got to where they are to inspire and raise their aspirations. This will help provide them with a clear and realistic pathway for their future”.

More information

Kirklees residents or a local employers wanting to know more about the Ignite project and how this support can benefit them can call 01484 221000 and ask for ‘Works Better’.