A NEW programme offering one-to-one or small group coaching for young, unemployed people has been created in BCP. 

BHCA Learn has used funding secured from charity Talbot Village Trust to create 1624, which will also help those not in education or training. 

The 1624 programme includes free life skills sessions incorporating cooking, budgeting, communication skills, wellbeing and employability support to help young people reduce anxiety, develop a strong CV and be comfortable and confident in interviews.  

Val Jefferies, project manager of 1624, said 11.5 per cent of all young people in BCP are not in education, employment or training (NEET). 

She said: “These young people are often disconnected and struggling, yet unsure where to turn. 

“Not surprisingly, being NEET can have a detrimental effect on young peoples’ physical and mental health and also increase the likelihood of unemployment, low wage and low quality of work later in life.” 

Flexible one-to-one coaching will be available in Bournemouth, Poole and Boscombe and public transport expenses will be paid.  

Paige Hutchings, 26, was NEET before joining BCHA Learn’s young people’s provision following the Covid pandemic. She is now employed full-time as a BCHA Learn admissions co-ordinator. 

Paige took voluntary redundancy from her retail job during the pandemic which she said knocked her confidence and affected her mental health. 

She said: “BCHA Learn’s support programmes enabled me to improve my employability skills, my CV, interview skills etc, as well as building my confidence. 

“I then applied for my current permanent role, and I’ve never been happier. 

“Being out of work and education can happen for many reasons out of your control and can make you feel you are trapped in limbo.” 

Nick Ashley-Cooper, chairman at Talbot Village Trust, said: “With recent figures showing that as many as 10 per cent of young people across BCP are classed as ‘NEET’, we’re delighted to support BCHA Learn in its mission to help reduce this number. 

“We believe that with the right training, support and advice, every young person can realise their potential. 

“It’s vital that we empower young people, convincing them of their self-worth and the positive impact they can offer our communities.” 

BCHA Learn is looking for other businesses and organisations which would be interested in getting involved. Email: Valjefferies@bcha.org.uk