Young people who are not in education, employment or training, and are not sure what to do next, can now access tailored support to help them find their way forward through a new service called STEP – Solent Traineeships, Engagement and Participation.
Executive Member for Education, Councillor Peter Edgar said:
For many young people, the transition from school to adult life can be extremely challenging, but a little support is often all that’s needed to help them find their way.
We recognise that each young person is an individual and we’re very pleased to be able to offer tailored support, often on a one-to-one basis, to young people who are interested in finding a new path, or who simply don’t know what to do next.
Young people taking part in STEP will be able to explore options such as apprenticeships, traineeships, employment, further training and volunteering, and will be able to discuss and consider the options with someone who takes into account their personal circumstances.
STEP includes a new offer of ‘Enhanced Traineeships’ providing young people with valuable work experience placements and support with maths and English, as a stepping stone into full apprenticeships. Anyone who progresses to a traineeship will receive dedicated 1-to-1 support throughout their placement and may receive a bursary depending on personal circumstances.
The programme is available from now until the end of March 2018. It is funded by the European Social Fund, through the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). It will be delivered by a partnership of local councils, led by Hampshire County Council.
To be eligible for the scheme, young people must be aged 15 to 24, legally resident and able to work in the UK or EU, and not in education, employment or training. They will need to access the support within the LEP area, which includes Totton, Romsey, Eastleigh, Southampton, Locks Heath, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth, and the Isle of Wight.
To take part in STEP, or to find out more information, please email hampshire.futures@hants.gov.uk or call 01962 846193.
