Benefits

CR1, CR2, CR3, CR5, CR6, CR8 

Need

BCT identified a need for a programme targeting employability among young people under 16 in North Belfast, particularly those from low-income families or minimally engaged with other youth services. The aim was to develop a model to enhance employability, work experience, personal skills, networks, and overall confidence of these marginalized young people. 

Action

BCT launched a pilot employability programme for 23 young people, predominantly male and aged 15-16. Participants had the chance to earn a qualification equivalent to two GCSEs. Each young person was paired with a dedicated mentor who crafted a bespoke programme based on a detailed needs assessment and identification of individual employment barriers. The programme involved weekly engagement in various personal development activities, such as the LifeSkills and LIFEMAPS toolkit, mindfulness, personal development and empowerment, mental health and resilience, goal setting, work preparation, and teamwork. An integral part of the programme was the paid Saturday work placements, which provided practical experience and additional income. To address initial reluctance towards these placements, BCT collaborated with the young people to find suitable alternative workplace experiences in sectors of their interest. 

Result

The pilot programme was highly successful. The young participants expressed significant satisfaction with the programme and showed an increased sense of belonging to their community, improved prospects for the future, and enhanced personal confidence. By adjusting the work placements to match the interests of the participants, BCT significantly increased participation rates. This approach enabled the young people to gain valuable skills while maintaining their enthusiasm for the project. 

Survey