The Island’s first youth employment hub has seen outstanding success just six months after opening.
Hailed as a physical ‘one-stop-shop’ to provide 18 to 24-year-olds who are on out of work benefits with employment skills support, the hub has helped over 100 young people return to employment, start new jobs, or embark on education and training opportunities since opening on 1st May 2024.
DWP performance review
After a performance review with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), it was revealed that the project’s model of providing practical employment support alongside mental health support and early intervention is proving effective, having generated job outcomes at 30 per cent.
This has resulted in a recommendation by DWP to bid for more funding to extend the Hub beyond its first year. The Department for Health and Social Care are also reviewing the Hub as a case study for effective outcomes for young people.
Support from local employers
Local employers are also gravitating towards the hub, with the Youth Trust engaging with Island businesses such as Gibbs Timber as part of a key element of the project.
Gibbs Timber have recently secured a contract to build over 200 sustainable homes on the Island and will be interviewing 35 candidates from the Youth Hub with a view to offering permanent employment opportunities to the right candidates.
Strengthening the local workforce and economy
Jo Dare, CEO of Isle of Wight Youth Trust said,
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every employer who has partnered with us.
“Your support not only transforms lives, but also strengthens the local workforce and economy.”
Jones-Evans: I am thrilled with their growing success
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet member for Economy, Regeneration, Culture and Leisure said,
“The results of the first six months of this project have proven the necessity for a hub like this on the Island to support and upskill our young people as they navigate the world of employment.”
“I am thrilled with their growing success and pleased that the hub will be looking to continue its good work for years to come.”
Become part of this transformative journey
As the programme continues to grow, the Youth Hub invite more businesses to become part of this transformative journey. By offering work placements, apprenticeships, or mentoring, employers can make a lasting impact on young lives whilst gaining fresh talent and perspectives.
To learn more about helping young people alongside us, please contact [email protected]
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
