Future Forward

This pilot project, led by Education Development Trust, targets NEET young people aged 16 to 24 across West Yorkshire with little to no professional experience. Through tailored one-to-one assessments, participants can identify their career interests, skills and available local opportunities.

To build their confidence and employability, an integral part of this pilot is the chance for young people to connect with an employer for a meaningful work experience placement based on their interests. A detailed action plan helps participants set realistic goals and track their progress, build on their skills and review and reflect on the journey travelled.  

 EDT advisers provide additional support to participants through one-on-one sessions, a series of group workshops, and continuous guidance throughout their placements, which can last up to six weeks.

“Healthy body, healthy mind” is the motto for the Building Healthy Futures pilot led by the Inspirational Training Institute (ITI) and offered to participants in Calderdale, Kirklees and Leeds. The project takes a holistic approach to physical and mental wellbeing to reach one’s true potential.

Participants are encouraged to take an active role in reaching their goals and make small changes to achieve a big and lasting impact on their lives.

The pilot allows young people to form and develop relationships with peers as well as providers of physical activity in their local area to raise motivation and career aspirations moving forward.

The Uplift pilot, delivered by Positive ECHO in Bradford, aims to raise awareness of the impact of mental health on young people’s wellbeing and tackle the stigma associated with people who struggle with their mental health.

Through the project, participants learn about different aspects of mental health and how they can build resilience as well as effective self-care routines. They are also encouraged to seek out guidance and information signposted by the team, should they wish to access additional support.

These activities, led by mental health experts, can help participants feel more prepared and confident when entering the workplace and provide new skills for their wellbeing toolkit.

Aspire Horizons offers interactive interventions to help young people with Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) navigate their pathways to success. Hosted by EASA in Bradford, the project engages participants in workshops, exploration as well as goal setting sessions and more to inspire and raise their career aspirations.

Tailored experiences with the pilot’s expert team enable young people to explore various careers, engage with local employers, develop new skills, search and apply for jobs, and take proactive steps towards achieving personal objectives.

Additionally, they gain access to valuable resources as well as mentoring opportunities and one-to-one support tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

Through Money Buddies in Leeds, this pilot develops young people’s understanding and skills regarding their personal finances. This involves tailored interventions to assess their benefits and apply for further financial support, manage household bills and explore banking options available.

The pilot aims to empower participants to take ownership of their finances and further their knowledge so they can make smart financial decisions moving forward into adulthood.

Further, the team of experts supports participants with sessions on taking out loans, self-employment as well as the dangers of loan sharks, gambling and cryptocurrencies.

Fast Track to Success, led by Blue Apple in the Leeds and Bradford area, takes a holistic approach to supporting young people as they enter adulthood. The pilot recognises the importance of factors such as healthy relationships, managing money and maintaining mental as well as physical wellbeing for the development of any young person.

Thus, our experts support participants in building their confidence in all these areas to enable them to enter the adult world with a strong sense of self, the ability to problem-solve and the motivation to build their resilience.

Also, upon completion of the pilot, participants will gain an Entry Level 3 qualification linked to Personal & Social Development (PSD).