Local businesses and professionals needed to support young people in Blackpool

Blackpool Council are working with their corporate bank, Barclays , who via their social value commitments, are addressing local key challenges. One of which is working with schools in the Blackpool area, offering our pupils opportunities and experiences that help them to develop employability skills and build their confidence.

In addition to this ‘Life Skills’ offer – Blackpool Council are working with Barclays to open up to 1500 bank accounts – to help the towns young people understand the importance of money skills which will  hopefully aid them as they journey into adulthood.

The Programme:

Barclays Life Skills is working with education charity The Talent Foundry to deliver a series of employability workshops across schools in Blackpool this academic year.

They’re seeking local businesses and representatives to support the programme. Ways to support include –

• Be a mentor – supporting a group of young people throughout the programme across in-school and out-of-school workshops, offering young people insights into the working world and tailored advice on their career steps. Time commitment – 6 x 3-5 hr workshops across Nov 2023-April 2024
• Be a guest speaker – a one-off short 20-minute presentation outlining your sector, the opportunities available and guidance on career steps. Time Commitment – attending 1 x 3-5 hour workshop during Nov 2023-April 2024
• Host a workshop – If you have a suitable space (e.g. large meeting room or an office/warehouse/facility offering tour opportunities) make this available to hold an out-of-school session. Time commitment – hosting 1 x 3-5 hour workshop during Jan-April 2024

The support you can expect is comprehensive – for instance, if individuals volunteer to be a mentor, you will receive a full mentor handbook and training session to prepare you for supporting young people. Similarly, guest speakers can expect to receive a full briefing, guidance and opportunity to ask questions ahead of presenting to students.

Moreover, all workshops are led by an expert Talent Foundry facilitator who is always on hand to support volunteers with on-the-day queries that arise. 

If you’d like to know more, or volunteer, please contact David Mawby from The Talent Foundry at 07412651165 or david.mawby@talentfoundry.org.uk