Karen Ormiston is urging third sector organisations to think about recruiting more young people

Against a backdrop of ongoing austerity, economic uncertainty and ever-increasing regulatory measures, organisations in the third sector are expected to innovate, embrace new technologies and grow in order to best reach and support their users.

So, it stands to reason that young people with their energy, enthusiasm and skills have been identified as key to the future sustainability and performance of organisations in the third sector. Young people bring fresh ideas, new approaches and increased digital skills; they can help tackle issues facing the third sector such as an ageing workforce, skills gaps and shortages, and customer insight. 30% of organisations say engaging young people helps existing staff development too.

Over the last few years Remarkable (formerly Investors in People Scotland) has supported over 650 organisations to successfully engage, employ and inspire young people. From advice around taking on a young recruit for the first time, to improving communication or developing a youth employment strategy, Remarkable has helped third sector organisations enhance their work with young people and overcome any challenges they may be facing.

Funding for us to help you

Remarkable is holding a series of free events next week in Edinburgh and Glasgow which focus on the skills and talent that Scotland’s young people bring to organisations and the positive impact they have on sustainability and performance.

Come along and be inspired by a fantastic line-up of speakers: chief executives who champion young people within their organisations, young leaders who are breaking the ground for others to follow, and young people themselves to hear what drives them and what this means for the organisations benefitting from their skills and talents.

Until the end of March 2018, micro and small to medium sized organisations can benefit from a fully funded Investors in Young People consultancy health check, enabling them to review their current practices and receive expert advice and guidance on how to enhance their youth employment activity. Involving face to face interviews and very little paperwork, feedback and outcomes are live and on the job.

Over 400 organisations have achieved the Investors in Young People award, including Cornerstone, Aberdeen Science Centre, and Young Scot. It’s the best way of demonstrating commitment to working with and supporting young people and gives organisations a competitive edge; there is currently 50% funding available towards the cost of the award.

So, if you want to get involved, come along and meet us next week. We're in Glasgow on Tuesday 20th February from 4 to 6pm and Edinburgh on Thursday 22nd February from 8 to 10am.

You can also give us a ring on 0131 625 0155 or email[email protected] to register your interest in an Investors in Young People health check or accreditation.

Karen Ormiston is marketing and communications executive Remarkable