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CARE-EXPERIENCED YOUNG PEOPLE SET TO BENEFIT FROM SKILLS BOOST

3 minute read

72 young people are set to benefit from Youth Leads UK’s successful leadership programme thanks to funding from the CareTech Foundation.

Youth Leads UK and the CareTech Foundation have unveiled a partnership to support 72 care-experienced young people, aged 12 to 25, across the North West to access skills development and social action opportunities.

The “Youth Leads Cares” programme aims to help young people, focused yet not limited to BAME community, in the care system with positive activities, skills workshops and employer-led mentoring.

Participants will access a three-month leadership programme to learn about communication, build confidence and boost their career prospects, with practical examples for future job interviews.

This work will take place primarily in Greater Manchester, launching first in Salford, Bolton and Bury. In 2024, the programme will launch in Manchester, Trafford and Rochdale. By 2026, 72 young people will have been supported thanks to funding from the CareTech Foundation.

Across the three years, participants will also contribute to the youth-led publication Xplode Magazine and design and deliver three social action projects based on issues that matter to them to give them experience in leading large projects.

CareTech Ltd staff will be invited to deliver Youth Leads’ industry insight sessions, provide mentoring opportunities and be interviewed in the Xplode Magazine.

Youth Leads UK Leadership Programme Participant, Rosa, said:

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted my future to be. Thanks to Youth Leads, I’ve built up the confidence to excel at whatever I choose. I’ve met journalists and entrepreneurs, written my own articles, and reached out to support the elderly in my community. Youth Leads has opened my eyes, and now I’m all set for the future I want!”

Youth Leads UK CEO, Saeed Atcha MBE DL, said:

“I know from my experience growing up in care that we face many more challenges and barriers than our non-care counterparts. I’m proud that our partnership with the CareTech Foundation removes barriers in the way of care experienced young people getting ahead. This programme will see care leavers become care leaders!”

CareTech Foundation CEO, Jonathan Freeman MBE, said:

“We are delighted to be able to provide funding to Youth Leads UK to support 72 care-experienced young people across the North West, over 3 years. By accessing the 3-month leadership programme young people will be able to boost and shape their careers and develop skills that will support them long into the future.”

Young people will be invited to identify where CareTech staff can support the project. CareTech is the leading social care provider for adults and children’s services in the UK.

You can learn more and get involved on the Youth Leads UK website: https://youthleads.uk.