Did you know that it is harder for a young person to find work in Haverhill than almost anywhere else in Suffolk?

Supporting Young Haverhill aims to change this statistic.

The new scheme was set up to help young people move closer to sustained employment and continue to develop essential skills that will help them progress into work. Therefore, local businesses are being asked to contribute their time in making the town a better place to live and work for future generations.

Haverhill MP, Matthew Hancock, launched the scheme in May, stating at the time: “Haverhill is a community that really pulls together and helps each other, and this event is all about that... Just the fact that we are all here, pulling together, helping and supporting young Haverhill people is absolutely crucial to our future and a really positive step.”

There are a number of ways that Haverhill retailers and businesses can help young people gain skills and experience:

Give a Talk

Tell school pupils or students about your business and the world of work. A talk doesn't take long, plus it promotes your business, as young people have family and friends who may become your customers or employees – if they aren't already!

Host a Workplace Visit

A workplace visit for school pupils or unemployed young people in Haverhill is the ideal opportunity for them to experience what the world of work is like, rather than simply hearing about it.

Provide Work Experience

Students or unemployed young people with work experience are automatically more employable than those who have none. It can take time to implement, but is rewarding – plus you have the opportunity to talent-scout for your future workforce.

Offer an Apprenticeship

Why not offer on-the-job training in the skills you need, in the way you want? It's a long term commitment on both sides but there is funding for training.

Mentor a Young Person

Become a mentor to a young person in school or college who is looking for employment or thinking of starting their own business. There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone make positive, life-changing decisions about their future.

Offer a Job to a Young Person

That's what Supporting Young Haverhill is all about!

Encourage other Haverhill businesses to Support Young Haverhill

Spread the word that there are options to suit all businesses and levels of commitment and Supporting Young Haverhill's team will be there to help them, whatever they can offer.

Make a Change Today

If you would like more information about Supporting Young Haverhill or would like to pledge your time and effort to help young, local people gain the skills they need to reach their goals, please call Debbie Gardner, Employer Advisor on 01440 753 906 or send her an email.