Young People Across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, Need Your Support.
Volunteers from business play an important part in raising the aspirations of young people, so that they can see what opportunities exist or are inspired to follow a career path they’d never previously considered. Engaging with young people also helps them prepare them for the world of work and know what is expected of them. Receiving guidance on writing a CV, running through a mock interview or visiting a workplace can leave a long-lasting and invaluable impression.
A Couple of Facts…
- Research from ‘Education & Employers’ highlights that young people who have four or more encounters with the world of work during their time at school or college are 86% less likely to become NEET (not in education, employment or training) and have higher earning potential.
- Research from the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFRE) shows that children begin to form stereotypes about occupations, careers and universities from the age of six. So giving primary age children the chance to meet volunteers from all sectors and levels of organisations is hugely important.
By joining the Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network we can help you connect with existing projects that are already making a positive impact on the career aspirations of your future workforce.
Get involved
Primary Futures Programme
Primary Futures is a programme from Education & Employers that has been rolled out across 25 Blackpool Primary Schools with funding from the Blackpool Opportunity Area.
The programme tackles gender stereotypes and is about broadening horizons for Key Stage 2 (Year 4, 5 & 6) children. There will be a range of activities to get involved in both virtually or in-school to help inspire and motivate children when they need it most.
We are asking for local volunteers from all industries, sectors and job levels – there’s very little commitment needed – it could just be one event, so 1 hour per year, it’s up to you. If you are interested in signing up as an organisation, please get in touch and we can link you directly to the programme manager.
Photo credit: Education and Employers
Register here
Support Lancashire Skills Pledge
The Lancashire Skills Pledge gives businesses a simple, single point of access to the county’s key skills and training opportunities. It offers impartial advice, practical support, and access to funded training designed to help Lancashire businesses grow, while supporting local people to develop the skills they need to succeed.
By signing up, one of the Pledge’s expert partners will contact you to offer guidance and help you make the most of your commitment. If you are already involved in a pledge, registering ensures your business is recognised for the positive steps you are taking to upskill your workforce, recruit locally, and inspire people across our communities.
Find out more
Bespoke Projects
Perhaps in your organisation, you have a bespoke reason to reach out to young people. That could be to build a future talent pipeline, dispel myths about your industry or increase the inclusivity and diversity of your workforce, we know partners that will be able to support you.
Please contact us and we can put you in touch with those that can help deliver this with you.
Get involved
Young people who have four or more encounters with the world of work are 86% less likely to become NEET
Join the networkJoin us at one of our next events
September's Fylde Coast RBN Network Meeting
18 September 2026
With almost 1 in 8 young people now NEET across the UK, and higher concentrations in coastal towns like Blackpool, this is a growing challenge with real implications for our local economy and communities. Recent national reporting has even warned of a potential “lost generation” if action isn’t taken.
Our keynote speaker for this event will be Alun Francis OBE, Chief Executive of Blackpool and The Fylde College and Chair of the Social Mobility Commission.
Book now