Caerphilly Council's youth service are working with schools and
other organisations, to support young people aged 11-18, who are
at risk of being not in education, employment or training or
becoming homeless.
Their preventative approach focuses on early identification of
risk, and information sharing with agencies such as schools,
colleges, Careers Wales and third sector organisations, to help
young people build a positive future.
John Poyner, the engagement and progression co-ordinator at
Caerphilly youth service, brings together organisations to
support around 400 young people. Their intervention includes
tailored support to help young people transition smoothly into
education, employment or training after leaving school.
John works closely with the youth homelessness coordinator based
in the youth service, Nichola Davies to identify and support
those young people who might also be at risk of homelessness.
Kaide, aged 18, has been supported by the project and is now
studying for his Level 1 qualification in sports at MPCT Sports
and Exercise College in Caerphilly.
He said:
“I didn't really enjoy school, I was struggling academically and
didn't know what I wanted to do. After joining the summer camp at
the Virginia Centre I started using the gym and socialising,
which built my confidence.
“I realised I could train to be a personal trainer, something I
never thought I'd be doing. I'm a new person now, physically and
mentally stronger.”
John Poyner said:
"Where a young person in Year 11 has been identified as at risk
of becoming NEET, I meet with them to establish relationships and
explain available support,"
“The key to our success is the positive relationship they build
with our service and with lead workers assigned to support them”
Other innovative approaches such as ‘Which Way Now?' events
hosted across four youth centres in the borough, have led to
positive outcomes for participants.
Particularly successful is the summer support programme, where
lead workers maintain contact with young people identified as
high risk. They provide telephone check-ins and home visits to
those without a clear plan after leaving school, connecting them
with appropriate advice and support.
Local colleges, Coleg y Cymoedd and Coleg Gwent's Crosskeys
campus, reinforce these efforts with their ‘Don't Drop Out, Speak
to us' campaign, where staff encourage struggling learners to
seek help.
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, , said:
"We want our children to have the support they need to thrive and
achieve their potential. This initiative showcases the power of
organisations coming together to provide that network of support
for young people."
Cabinet Secretary for Housing, , added:
"This collaborative approach between youth services, education
providers and housing organisations demonstrates how early
intervention can transform young lives.
“By identifying vulnerable young people early, we can prevent
homelessness and ensure they have the support they need."
The programme is supported through the Youth Engagement and
Progression Framework and Welsh Government funding for youth
work and youth support services.
