The Services for Young People (SfYP) Employment Pathways programme supports young people aged 16 to 25 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). The programme offers help with CV writing, job searching, interview skills, and work experience placements to help young people gain the confidence and skills they need to get back into education, training, or to find a job.
One young person’s journey with support from SfYP shows the life-changing impact that tailored support can have on overcoming barriers. Her story highlights how the right guidance can empower young people to regain control of their futures and achieve their goals.
The young person, who has special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), was referred to SfYP to receive support for various personal challenges, including the breakdown of her relationship with her mother, understanding healthy and safe relationships, and catching up on her learning after a significant time away from education.
Initially, her confidence was low, and she was hesitant to engage with the SfYP Employment and Training Adviser. However, after a few meetings, she began to open up about her desire for help with writing a CV and finding volunteering or work experience opportunities.
The SfYP Adviser explored her interests and career goals and arranged a 12-hour work taster at Sandridgebury Riding School in St Albans. The placement not only helped her understand the working environment and workplace expectations, but also helped ease her anxiety and built her confidence.
Following this, she completed a 70-hour work experience placement, fully embracing her responsibilities and showing excellent timekeeping, teamwork, and initiative. Her communication skills improved significantly, and the employer praised her dedication, offering her part-time paid employment as a result of her impressive performance.
Alongside her work experience, the young person received support from the SfYP Adviser to retake her GCSEs in English and maths, which she had previously struggled with due to significant time out of education. She enrolled in a Level 1 course in Equine Studies at Oaklands College, a step towards her long-term goal of becoming an equine dentist. Her Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) was updated to ensure she received the necessary support during her course. Her confidence has significantly improved, she is now attending college independently with plans to move on to a level 2 qualification or pursue an apprenticeship and is enjoying her part-time job at the stables.
The young person also received advice and guidance on healthy relationships and emotional wellbeing support. SfYP made a referral to Herts Young Homeless charity, where she is now waiting for supported accommodation.
Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude for the support she received from SfYP, saying, “When I come to see my Adviser, I feel comfortable and able to talk openly. They have helped me so much.”
Clare Borland, Riding School and Livery Yard Manager, spoke highly of her:
“I have had many students through the doors over the past few years, but rarely do you meet someone like [name of young person].She is passionate about her work, hardworking, and always looking for the next task and challenge... I would be happy to support her in her future career path.”
If you know of a young person who may benefit from support, find out more about the Employment Pathways programme and refer a young person to SfYP.
Employment Pathways is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
