The Peterborough Youth Employment Hub is celebrating a ‘strong
start' following its opening at the Weston Homes Stadium last
November. New data reveals that the Hub has already engaged 73
young people, providing a vital lifeline in a city where NEET
(Not in Education, Employment, or Training) rates have recently
sat above the national average.
Launched as part of the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer and hosted by
the Peterborough United Foundation, the Hub was designed to
provide a ‘one-stop shop' for those aged 16–24. Since its doors
opened, the Hub has transformed from a concept into a thriving
community space where 37 young people are currently receiving
intensive one-to-one support through Individual Learning Plans.
One of those residents is Leo, who found himself stuck in a loop
of endless, unsuccessful online applications.
"The support here is different, it was tailored to me,"
says Leo. "I was just looking for something to
bring money in, but the Hub helped me see I could actually thrive
in something I enjoy. I didn't have much belief in myself before,
but this has opened up so many opportunities."
Leo is one of 37 young people currently working through
intensive, one-to-one ‘Individual Learning Plans' designed to
bridge the gap between leaving school and finding a career.
The Hub is one of only eight ‘Youth Guarantee Trailblazer' areas
in the country. It represents a unique partnership between the
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, the EFL in
the Community, and the football club's foundation.
Dean Watson, Youth Hub Manager, says: "We've
created a space where young people can express themselves without
feeling like they're in a regimented system. It's about more than
theory; it's about mentoring and professional connections that
lead to real-life success."
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, , added "My priority
is simple, helping our young people get a job and giving them the
best possible start in life. This Hub is already delivering for
Peterborough, providing a welcoming space at the Posh where
anyone can walk in and get the support they need to find work or
training. It's about unlocking the massive potential we have in
our city and making sure no one is left behind."
How to Get Involved
The Hub is calling on local employers to help shape the next
generation of Peterborough's workforce through mentoring,
workshops, or site visits.
Notes to Editors:
- Peterborough's NEET rate (5.4%) is nearly double the regional
average (3.4%), making the Hub a critical intervention for the
local economy.
- This is a collaborative project between the Cambridgeshire
& Peterborough Combined Authority and the Peterborough United
Foundation.
- This project is part of a high-profile national "Trailblazer"
pilot to test new ways of supporting young people into the
workforce.
