Young people get 'best chance' for work with business support

A group of Gwent- based businesses are supporting a programme which helps young people leaving the care system to enter the workplace.

SERs, Capita Symonds, Bron Afon Housing Association are among the companies backing the ‘Best Chance’ programme, a Business in the Community (BITC) initiative that provides young unemployed people with an opportunity to get training and work experience to help them on their journey back into work.

Companies taking part in Best Chance are demonstrating their commitment to responsible business practice – they know this is the right thing to do.  But without a doubt, there are also business benefits like opportunities to develop staff, increase employee morale, and in some cases, a cost-effective recruitment option.

Six participants have taken part in the programme this month, with training, mentoring and two week work placements provided by a range of companies in Torfaen.

Wales Director at Business in the Community, Simon Harris, said there had never been a more important time for business leaders to do more in their community.

“In a competitive job market, the difficulties that a young person leaving the care system may have in getting back into work are amplified.  Often lacking skills, qualifications, experience and confidence, they face an uphill battle to find work.

“These young people just need a chance to gain some skills and experience and help them go on to find work and live successful independent lives – and that’s where it’s important that we have the backing from employers.”

Under the direction of Simon Harris, Business in the Community is focusing much of the organisation’s activity on working with companies to develop the employees of the future, whether they be care leavers, homeless or ex-offenders.

Simon said: “Companies taking part in Best Chance are demonstrating their commitment to responsible business practice – they know this is the right thing to do.  But without a doubt, there are also business benefits like opportunities to develop staff, increase employee morale, and in some cases, a cost-effective recruitment option.

 “It’s through this programme is that businesses can often find talent where they least expect it.  It also helps them to unlock the talents of their existing workforce through volunteering opportunities like mentoring,” 

Best Chance is a participant focused programme, where job-matches are based on the individuals’ requirements.  Best Chance is an Engagement Gateway project funded by WCVA through the Welsh Government and the European Social Fund.  

For more information about Business in the Community and getting involved in employability programmes, visit www.bitc.org.uk/wales.