On Thursday the 24th of November we hosted our third annual conference and awards ceremony in Corby. Delegates joined us from employers, charities, youth organisations, colleges, universities and councils for a day of inspiration, learning and networking.
The conference was based around the principles of our Youth Friendly Charter as we looked closely at the things organisations could do to remove barriers and support more young people. We know that many organisation are really committed to supporting young people so the conference aimed to shine a light on some of those organisations and showcase their best practice.
I am full of ideas!! Specifically further developing our apprenticeship in collaboration with other young people and listening to their needs. Vicki Brown, The William Cecil
Great opportunity to reflect on these important issues and take some action towards improving youth employment
Emma Parry, University of Sheffield
Thanks to all of our speakers
Rathbone Training – Youth Voice
leanrdirect – Creating Opportunity
McDonalds – Recognising Talent
Santander – Developing People
IFDS Group – Fair Employment
And thanks to our panel which included speakers from DWP, CentrePoint, Interserve and Talent Match Manchester.
Pledging to make a difference
Supporting the talk from Rathbone Training was a young man called Robbie. Robbie lives in Scotland and has some real challenges in getting training as a car mechanic which is what he wants to do. One of Robbies challenges is the rural location where he lives and access to colleges. Delegates at the conference were so taken by Robbie’s story that we were asked to create a fundraising page for him to help raise the funds for his driving lessons and a car. Robbies story is available to read on this fundraising site.
At the end of the conference delegates reflected on the discussions and Youth Friendly Charter. Each organisation then committed to making some change within their own organisation based on what had been discussed. Over 30 organisations made a pledge in this session and their pledges will have a positive impact on youth employment.
Youth Friendly Awards Winners 2016
This year saw the toughest competition yet for our annual Youth Friendly Employer Awards.
Michael Tomlinson MP the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Youth Employment sent this message to conference:
A big congratulations to all of the organisations who made the shortlist and a huge congratulations to our winners:
Small Youth Friendly Employer 2016 – Humanutopia
Medium Youth Friendly Employer 2016 – Fidler and Pepper
Large Youth Friendly Employer 2016 – Agilisys
This year we had a special award for the Young Professional Supporter of the year and that was won by – learndirect
The Ambassador of the year award was awarded to – Ben Fisher
Thanks to our sponsors
A big thank you to all of our sponsors and exhibitors this year, with big thanks to our headline sponsor – Positive Outcomes.
The feedback from delegates attending the conference was fantastic with 100% of respondants saying that they would support other YEUK events.
Thank you all for your time and energy!
