A unique blend of career support and social activity is coming to the city centre this month as a successful local initiative enters its next phase of connecting young people with the workplace.
Young people between 18 and 21 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) are invited to the next Liverpool Youth Trailblazer (LYT) drop-in event on Thursday, 30 April.
Held at PINS Social Club on Duke Street from 11.30 am to 2 pm, the event offers young people, parents, and carers the chance to learn about employment support and career opportunities alongside ten-pin bowling and a pizza lunch.
Since launching last September, the LYT has supported over 450 young trailblazers in building skills and confidence, helping them move into further training or long-term employment.
This success has led the government to green-light the project’s second phase.
A National Hub for Youth Employment
The Liverpool City Region is one of only eight areas nationally designated as a Youth Guarantee Trailblazer area.
With just under £5 million in funding, the region is testing innovative ideas to support young people into meaningful work.
The Liverpool team currently collaborates with 250 employers and a wide range of partners to help those facing barriers enter the workplace.
Support services available through the partnership include:
- Pre-employment mentoring provided by Catch 22, Merseyside Youth Association, and The Big Trust.
- Motivational programmes using sports and creativity from the Be Free Campaign, Sound City Liverpool, and the Kings Trust.
- Specialist in-work support for trailblazers with additional needs, delivered by Blackburne House.
- Employer training led by No Place Productions to help businesses recruit and retain young talent.
Success and Expansion
The impact of the programme in its first six months has been significant, prompting the move into this second phase of activity.
Joanne Kennedy, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Employment, Educational Attainment and Skills, said:
“The success that the council’s Youth Trailblazer team has had in just six months is truly impressive.
“The fact that we have been able to engage with over 450 young people and move them into or closer to employment is a fantastic achievement, making not only a massive difference to the young person and their family but also to the wider city.
“And there’s more to come!
“This success has led to the second phase of the Liverpool Youth Trailblazer receiving the green light, and we’re excited to work with even more young people.
“None of this success would have happened without our partners and employers, whose commitment to supporting our young people has been second to none.
“The event on 30 April at PINS Social Club is a great opportunity to meet the team, partners and employers and find out how they can help you.
“Also, if there is a young person in your life who is not in education, employment of training and needs advice or support, please let them know, and don’t forget to mention the pizza!”
How to Get Involved
The event on 30 April is free to attend, but registration via Eventbrite is required to manage numbers.
Young people unable to attend can still access support by completing the enquiry form on the Liverpool City Council website.
Organisations and employers interested in offering opportunities are encouraged to contact the team at youthtrailblazer@liverpool.gov.uk.
Regular updates on the programme are also shared via the Liverpool Youth Trailblazer LinkedIn page.
