Norfolk employers urged to back young people's careers
A new scheme's been launched to help Norfolk's youngsters get on the career ladder.
Last updated 7th Jun 2021
Employers in Norfolk are being encouraged to get behind young people's efforts to get on the career ladder as part of a new scheme.
The £800,000 project aims to create more work-based opportunities for young people so they can learn the skills that local employers are looking for.
The Youth Pledge for Employers is a European Social Fund funded project, and asks small and medium enterprises to pledge their help.
Graham Plant, Deputy Leader of Norfolk County Council and Cabinet Member for Growing the Economy, said: "This project is vital to Norfolk and Suffolk's recovery as we work together to support our young people to actively get involved in the world of work.
"Deciding what to be when they grow up can be stressful time for young people. We're looking for SMEs to join the Youth Pledge project to help demystify the world of work.
"It's about throwing open the doors to reveal the range of careers available and provide valuable insights and real-life experiences for our future workforce."
Employers can get involved with the Youth Pledge at a range of different levels, from something as simple as pledging to provide an hour's talk or a site visit, right the way through to offering an apprenticeship or a job.
To get the Youth Pledge project underway, the team are looking for businesses interested in hosting work inspiration events, such as giving a talk, or hosting a virtual tour of a workplace for young people in their local area.
The two-year project is being run as partnership between Norfolk and Suffolk County Council's, and The Mason Trust, with support from the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.