2022 ESF case study - Include Youth, Give and Take Start - delivery partner: Alternatives
Give and Take Start is led by Include Youth with delivery partners including Alternatives. The programme aims to improve the employability skills and self-esteem of young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in employment, education or training (NEET), who face complex barriers to engagement, and who come from communities of greatest disadvantage. This programme assists young people in progressing into education, employment and/or training.
The project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund 2014-2020 and the Department for the Economy.
Participant's story
Include Youth tells the story of a participant who joined Give and Take Start to avail of support to gain employment.
Prior to enrolling on the Give and Take Start programme this young male had been bullied in school resulting in suicidal ideation, low self-esteem and mental health. At first he attended the classes in a shy, nervous manner and described suffering with anxiety. The participant explained that he struggled to recite the alphabet and found school to be difficult because he didn’t feel supported.
After a number of weeks building relationships with staff and young peers within the group the participant began to open up and relax, deciding he wanted to try out essential skills, maths and English. He was dedicated to classes, often arriving early to help set up and get a chat with everyone. The participant confidently completed two essential skills assessments and successfully achieved entry level grade, something he thought was impossible when beginning the programme.
Gaining employment
As the weeks went on the participant began to develop great self-awareness; his posture improved, how he spoke and his character began to flourish and we got to know the young man behind the anxiety and depression. Determined to gain employment he took part in mock interviews and also completed a week long work experience placement. The participant went on to successfully secure employment – an achievement that has become a massive milestone in his life.
Meaningful relationships
Since gaining employment he has recognised that his school experience doesn’t define him and has been able to form new meaningful friendships with work colleagues and other young people on the programme.
He now volunteers, is hugely inspiring and a great advocate for other young people and we are so proud of all of his achievements.
Speaking of his experience with the project, the participant says:
“Alternatives are like a family to me, I have gained qualifications and made loads of new friends and don’t feel so lonely anymore. I’m looking forward to helping any of the new people who come to join the course, and love that I have a wage now.”