Agenda item

Context:

Further to Cabinet approval for the implementation of the Inspire2Work (I2W) programme in March 2016, Youth Enterprise requests in principle support for additional match funding from Authority reserves. This funding will enable the enhanced delivery of the existing I2W programme which provides post 16 support, intervention and employment opportunities utilising European Structural Fund (ESF) monies.

Key Issues:

·         The current I2W programme for 16-18 year olds was approved by Cabinet in March 2016 for three years at a total project cost of £381,601 split between 55% ESF of £171,720 and Monmouthshire County Council match funding in the sum of £209,881.

·         Following the delayed final approval of the programme in February 2017, one of the project’s original partners, Melin Homes, has withdrawn from the project. This provides an opportunity for the Authority to extend its current programme provision beyond 16-18 year olds to 16-24 year olds.

·         Members have previously been made aware that Welsh Government has implemented the Youth Engagement and Progression Framework 2013, which provides a delivery model centred on the needs of young people identifying six key areas for achieving better outcomes for young people. The principles of the framework is embedded in the I2W programme and is designed to secure added value whilst reflecting the needs and aspirations of Monmouthshire’s young people and the Authority’s Single Integrated Plan.

Member Scrutiny:

·         16 – 18 year olds Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) currently number around 60 young people.  However, young people can come in and out of this as they progress.

·         For JSA, those young people aged 18 – 24 claimants, there are currently 40 young people.

·         Data is continually being monitored as these are some of the most hardest to reach young people. Bespoke pages of support are required, i.e., a large or small intervention might be required, depending on the individual’s needs.

·         Discussions are being held with the lead authority, Newport City Council regarding target setting.

·         In response to a question regarding similar schemes that have been operated, it was noted that three contracts were run two years ago with Job Centre Plus and are keen to pick up on this work again liaising with local links and the Job Centre.

·         Outcomes to evidence the success of the project – 33% Education, 22% into employment and 18% into educational training.  Outcomes are being met.

·         All avenues in terms of apprenticeships are being investigated with good links both locally and nationally. The aim is to tap into the local business market and we are well placed to build employability links.  Discussions with schools are being held in the future.

·         Young people’s interests and past experiences are also looked at, as well as aiming to build confidence and unlock the potential in young people.

·         As the service is bespoke, the team will met individuals in their locality. Monmouthshire is a rural authority and therefore not always easy for young people to access services.

·         The programme is gender balanced and gender targets have been set.  This is a three year project and discussions have already been made with a view to identifying where future funding will come from. A meeting with Welsh Government later today will be held to discuss the employability agenda.