A trailblazing project aiming to help young people take their next steps into employment, training or further education in Mid Suffolk has received more than £100,000 in funding.
The Together Programme, which is run by The Mix youth project in Stowmarket, has received a cash boost from Mid Suffolk District Council, Suffolk County Council, local business PPG and the People’s Postcode Lottery.
The project, thought to be the first of its kind in Suffolk, looks to improve the skills and aspirations of young people aged 15 to 24.
The young participants will go through a personalised programme of training and coaching to help transform their personal lives and relationships as well as developing practical skills to help them take their next step in life - whether it be work, training or education.
Rae Warner, Together Programme director, said: “This is about young people and communities building their future together.
“We know that as a youth charity, we can make a bigger impact by working together as a community.
“Thanks to the financial commitment from Mid Suffolk District Council, Suffolk County Council, PPG and The People’s Lottery we can develop a life skills and personal development programme to help young people discover their true value, build the confidence, motivation and resilience for moving onto their next step.
“The programme will be underpinned by our inspirational Leadership for Life course and with feedback from local employers we will identify the skills needed for young people who are not currently in education, employment or training to gain and sustain employment in future.”
The programme has received £40,000 from Mid Suffolk District Council, £25,000 from Suffolk County Council and a further £23,000 from PPG, owners of the Stowmarket-based paint factory.
An additional £18,000 has been donated by the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Councillor Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for economy, said: “Supporting our wide range of local businesses to thrive and grow is vital to our economy.
“We’re proud to support this work, equipping our young people with the life skills they need, creating opportunities for them to take their next step and ensuring local business can benefit from the great pool of talent that can be found right here in Mid Suffolk.”
Councillor Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills added: “This represents just part of £400,000 skills team funding for Youth Employment projects across Suffolk.
“This is all about giving local young people the choice and opportunity to get the best start in adult life, whether that’s through further training after full-time education to develop their skills or getting their first break in the employment market.”
Mike Walsh, PPG Stowmarket plant manager said: “We are proud to support youth in Suffolk.
“We recognise the importance of growing their self-confidence and maximising their opportunities as they enter the labour market.
“PPG has previously collaborated with The Mix on our Colourful Communities project and we are delighted to continue this partnership by supporting the Together Programme through our community engagement program.”
To find out more about the Together Programme, call The Mix on 01449 745130 or email Chloe Davis at The Mix.
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