Empowering Futures: Bridging the gap for young unemployed in Maidstone
SUEZ partners with CXK and Maidstone Borough Council to provide a 5-week upskilling programme for young adults.
Young people in Maidstone are celebrating a vital first step on the career ladder after completing a 5-week upskilling programme which concluded on the 10 December, designed to boost their employability and introduce them to local employers. The programme seeks to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing participants with the tools they need to thrive in the workforce.
The programme is designed to support young people in Maidstone who are not currently in education, employment, or training (NEET), or are at risk of becoming so.
Recognising the challenges faced by young adults in securing meaningful employment, the programme focussed on a comprehensive curriculum that includes CV writing, interview techniques, workplace communication, and teamwork. Through the meet-and-greet sessions and behind-the-scenes insights, young people learned about the SUEZ operations and the diverse career paths available.
Crucially, SUEZ also provided participants with the direct opportunity to interview for live vacancies, offering a tangible pathway into employment. One delegate said “I was nervous at first be this has been an enjoyable experience. I feel like it has improved skills I already had but more importantly the ones I wasn’t so sure with. I now feel more able to find work and I feel like opportunities have been opened up to me. The people who run this course are very lovely and I will definitely recommend it to anyone local who is struggling to find work.’’
James Goodwin, Contract Manager at SUEZ said "SUEZ is committed to enriching the communities where we work and helping to equip young people with the skills to pursue their chosen careers is one of the most fulfilling contributions we can make. We’re excited to join forces with CXK, this partnership will help young adults gain the confidence and the skills needed to enter the job market successfully.’’
“Helping young people gain the confidence and skills they need to enter the workforce is vital for Maidstone’s future. This programme shows what can be achieved when local partners work together to create real opportunities and unlock potential.” said Councillor Clive English Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Enforcement.