We found a gap in the way young people receive help. The young people we meet range from those who are just short of a little bit of know-how on achieving what they want to those who just cannot work out what they want to do. UK unemployment is high and there are many reasons why young people will find it especially harder and Exeter and it’s surrounding is no exception on having people who need an extra helping hand.
There are approximately 1000 unemployed young people at any one time in Exeter and its surroundings. There are inequities such as 11% of children in care gaining A to Cs in GCSE as opposed to 66% of all children in Devon, reduced opportunities for those who live in the outskirts without cars for transport to work in the city.
We are constantly reaching out with ideas and solutions, and talking to organisations and individuals taking a city view with this. We take it one person at a time, and one problem at a time. Whether it is with the local organisation helping young people reach their aspirations or directly, we take it one person at a time, and one problem to fix at a time. Our pilots, models, analysis, and viewpoints have resulted in young people gaining employment, returning to education, increasing in confidence, and thinking differently about how to stay ahead for future work and careers. And best of all, we do this together with the young people, businesses, charities, and supporters within and outside Exeter.
Forward 25 Careers was founded by Rupa Chilvers, who is passionate about workforce development, using information to make decisions, and watching aspirations come true. The company was formed with the help of Ellie Spencer and Milan Recknagel who were working with us at the time of formation. Milan helped name the company and Ellie designed the logo, both were instrumental in getting the company to where it is today. Since then, we have met and worked with a lot of wonderful people and companies, and we continue to build on the fantastic projects, ideas and inputs we have had over the years. We want to say a massive thank you to the young people who have worked with us, sponsors, supporters and partners.
