Derbyshire expands ‘unstoppable’ programme to help young people into work

Derbyshire County Council is set to extend its successful Unstoppable programme, helping more young people overcome barriers to employment and build brighter futures.

The programme is funded by Mayor Claire Ward as part of the East Midlands Combined County Authority Youth Guarantee Trailblazer Programme, which has allocated £128,000 for Derbyshire’s second year of delivery.

The next phase of the programme will run until March 2027, continuing its targeted support for 18 to 21-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training.

The extension follows a successful first year, which saw young people move into jobs, training, and work experience, while gaining essential life skills and support.

Councillor Dan Price, Cabinet Member for Communities and Safety, said: “Unstoppable focuses on tackling the real-life challenges that can hold young people back from work, including mental health, financial difficulties, housing issues and lack of opportunities.

“Through one-to-one support and tailored work, the programme helps young people to overcome these barriers and move towards sustained employment.”

Key achievements so far include:

• Young people moving into paid jobs and training
• Access to work experience and employer engagement
• Mental wellbeing improvements through counselling and support services
• Practical help with debt, benefits and gaining financial stability
• Helping in the local community through volunteering initiatives

Young people have also gained qualifications and certifications, including First Aid and volunteering awards, helping strengthen their CVs and building their confidence.

To build on this success, the council is continuing to invest in trusted local partners to deliver vital wraparound support:

• Derbyshire Districts Citizens Advice (DDCA) will receive funding to continue providing independent advice and delivering personalised financial support for participants.
• Chesterfield Football Club’s Thr1ve programme will continue to deliver specialised mental well-being services

This additional funding will enable the programme to support more young people while also carrying out a full evaluation of the project to help to inform future national policy.

By extending the Unstoppable programme for a second year, Derbyshire County Council is reinforcing its commitment to helping young people reach their potential and reducing inequalities linked to unemployment.

The programme fits with the council’s wider ambitions to create inclusive growth, improve well-being, and ensure every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

Find out more by calling 01629 537607, email ASCH.Unstoppable @ derbyshire.gov.uk or visit unstoppablederbyshire.com