A PILOT initiative supporting young people across the West of England to access employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities has marked its first anniversary.

More than 300 young people have already taken up support through the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer pilot which aims provide them with the skills and confidence to move into work.

Its benefits include one-to-one advice and access to a range of practical support, including access to digital devices to help them get online and free bus travel to enable better access to employment opportunities across the region.

Participants have so far progressed into work, apprenticeships, volunteering, education or training opportunities.

The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer is making real progress on unlocking potential and changing lives, with participants noting their improved confidence and the independence they’ve experienced.

Helen Godwin, mayor of the West of England, said: “This first year of our regional Youth Guarantee is demonstrating our ability to make a difference.

“The prospects for hundreds of young people have already changed for the better, and we applaud their hard work and commitment whether it’s been attaining a job, educational course or other opportunities in the voluntary sector.

“Just like them, every young person in the West of England deserves the chance to succeed, so now is the time to step things up a gear. With more funding for the Youth Guarantee during this second year, we can provide even more advice and support to help give more young people more opportunities.”

The West of England is one of only eight Trailblazer regions in England picked to pioneer this new approach, testing how local leadership, partnership working, and enhanced support services can improve outcomes for young people. The learnings here will inform policy development across the country and help shape the future.