Say ‘YES’ to success – a positive year supporting young people into work

More than 130 young people have been supported by Derbyshire County Council to move into apprenticeships or employment over the past 12 months as part of the Youth Employment Support (YES) Derbyshire programme.

The programme, which is a joint initiative between the county council and the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, helps 16-24 year olds who are not in education, training or employment to get on the career ladder.

Operating from three Derbyshire hubs including one in Ilkeston, the programme brings together expertise from specialist support organisations, training providers and employers in a one-stop-shop for young people seeking information, advice, and opportunities to boost their confidence, build their skills and ultimately find work.

Over the past 12 months the programme has:

• Helped 511 young people who registered for the programme
• Supported 488 young people to develop a personalised action plan for their next steps into training or employment
• Opened up opportunities for 306 young people to complete work experience, volunteering or training
• Successfully moved 138 young people into apprenticeships or employment
• Provided specialist support to 81 young people

Leader of Derbyshire County Council Councillor Alan Graves said: “YES Derbyshire provides a vital service to young people across the county, offering compassionate, practical, and personalised support to help them overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

“By providing valuable opportunities to get training and qualifications, apprenticeships, work experience and employment, the programme supports one of our key objectives to help people to find work – backing our commitment to create communities where people live safe, healthy, independent lives.

“I wish every success to everyone supported by the project, now and in the future.