The Prince’s Trust Scotland Team programme is celebrating its 25th anniversary
A programme to help young people find a job has been hailed a success after it was revealed three out of every four participants go on to employment, further training or education.
The Prince’s Trust Scotland Team programme is celebrating its 25th anniversary having helped thousands of unemployed young people gain confidence and practical skills to prepare them for the world of work.
Figures released by charity highlight that 76% of young people in Scotland who complete the programme go into training or jobs or back into education within three months of completing the programme.
The charity’s analysis of the programme, carried out by NEF Consulting, also shows for every £1 invested there is a social return of £2.99.
The 12-week personal development programme, gives vulnerable young people the chance to build their confidence and boost their employability skills, offering on the job training, qualifications, practical skills, community projects and a residential week.
Last year it helped 850 disadvantaged young people.
I thought I had no hope. I thought my life would be in prison. The Prince’s Trust gave me a life changing opportunity, now I have a future I can look forward to
Simon
One of those, Simon from Peterhead, faced barriers including lack of motivation, poor educational achievement, and involvement in criminal behaviour.
He was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder but by 15, he had been charged with various offences, including theft and possession of a knife and was banned from school.
Simon’s criminal justice worker referred him to Team, as she felt that the structure, routine and discipline would benefit him.
After completing the programme Simon volunteered to work on the next programme as an assistant team leader, and then secured an apprenticeship at a logistics firm.
“I had no motivation, no education, no job – everything around me pointed to failure,” he said.
“I thought I had no hope. I thought my life would be in prison. The Prince’s Trust gave me a life changing opportunity, now I have a future I can look forward to.
“Team gave me the opportunity to take part in activities and challenges I would never have got to try. It made me learn to trust people – and that was a major breakthrough for me.”
The Prince’s Trust Scotland works in partnership with further education college and community partners around Scotland to deliver the programme, which is sponsored by Barclays.
Kathleen Britain, head of UK community investment at Barclays, said: “We are proud to support the Team programme as part of our ongoing partnership with The Prince’s Trust.
“We are committed to helping the next generation build the enterprise, employability and financial skills they need to achieve their potential.
“Together, we are enabling young people across the UK to gain employment, become financially independent and ultimately contribute to growth in the local economy.”
Tennis coach Judy Murray is a supporter of the programme and recently met some of those taking part.
She added: “I would like to congratulate all the young people who have taken part in the Team programme over the last 25 years.
“Team work is really important - it gives young people a sense of belonging, gives them confidence and empowers them to develop new skills.”
