New partnership helps young people to step up
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Enable Step Up logo
A new partnership between Shropshire Council’s Enable and IAG Neet teams, and Telford and Wrekin Council, will offer young people a new route into training, education and employment.
The new Step Up programme will give young people aged 15-24 across Shropshire, and Telford and Wrekin, access to one-to-one support with a designated key worker. Those participating in the programme will benefit from training, education or employment opportunities in their local area.
Step Up, which is part-funded by ESF and managed by the Department for Work and Pensions, will run until September 2023 and deliver support in the local community.
A variety of communication methods will be used to deliver training including face-to face and Teams meetings, emails and phone calls.
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Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, said:-
“I am really pleased to see the launch of the Step Up programme in Shropshire.
“The programme will help young people build their confidence, skills and employability using a bespoke, individualised plan which will enable them to work towards achievable goals.
“If you or someone you know would benefit from this programme, please contact our Enable team who will be more than happy to talk you through it.”
Shelley Instone, senior key worker for the Shropshire area,added:-
‘This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone aged 15-24 to explore realistic options and recognise their own potential.
“We understand that young people often prefer a one-to-one method of support, and this approach allows us to ensure each individual has everything they need to progress towards a great future.
“We are fortunate to have good relationships with providers and employers who keep us up to date with new opportunities and vacancies which we can match our customers with.”
Enable, already established within Shropshire and Telford, support mental health, disabilities and long term unemployment and this new programme will also offer holistic support, advice and guidance on mental health, wellbeing and other disabilities.
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education and Lifelong Learning, said:
“Step Up is an initiative to engage young people and put them on track for the future.
“We are delighted to be involved in this partnership which aims to raise the aspirations of residents across the Telford & Wrekin area and throughout Shropshire – giving them the opportunities they need to secure employment and achieve success.”
Emma Carless, senior key worker for the Telford area, added:-
“What is great about this programme is following the effects of the pandemic we have chosen to work in the community.
“So this person-centred approach means dedicated key workers will now work with young people face-to-face, virtually or even in local community centres, wherever they feel comfortable.”
For anyone wanting to find out more about the Step Up programme you can visit www.enableservices.co.uk
Phone 01743 276900 or contact the team on email on step-up@shropshire.gov.uk
