‘Trailblazer’ funding announced in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
The funding aims to transform opportunities for young people to get into work, as part of government plans to 'get Britain working'
The Government has unveiled a new funding initiative to help young people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough gain skills and secure employment or further education.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, announced the funding yesterday during a visit to Peterborough College alongside Mayor Dr Nik Johnson. The announcement is part of the Government’s Get Britain Working White Paper, a £240 million reform package aimed at reducing economic inactivity and supporting young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are among eight areas in England selected for ‘trailblazer’ status. The funding will help at-risk young people access apprenticeships, training, and work experience, while addressing barriers to employment.
“This funding will be transformational in helping break down the barriers to good quality employment,” said Mayor Johnson. “As a trailblazer, we can build on our experience and deliver real opportunities that change lives, providing access to education, training, and work.”
The initiative includes a ‘Youth Guarantee’, ensuring every 18- to 21-year-old in England has access to an apprenticeship, quality training, or support to find a job. Locally, efforts will focus on enhancing higher education access, expanding workplace skills through the Careers Hub, and increasing collaboration with employers to meet skills demands.
Additionally, the Combined Authority will lead the Connect to Work programme, aimed at helping adults with disabilities or complex barriers to find employment. This voluntary programme will bring together employment and health services, local councils, and employers to support over 1,000 motivated individuals.
Both initiatives align with the region’s upcoming Local Growth Plan and Work, Health, and Skills Plan, aiming to foster a culture of lifelong learning to benefit the community and economy.