The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on young people in London and the job opportunities available to them. In response to the rapid increase in unemployment among young adults, London South East Colleges has joined forces with Jobcentre Plus, securing funding to set up a Youth Hub. The hub will provide an employment advice service to help local young people back into work.
This strategic relationship will enable Jobcentre Plus and London South East Colleges advisors to work together collaboratively in supporting young people to reskill for alternative careers and access relevant training opportunities. This specialist service will also identify and address barriers that are holding young people back during this unprecedented time. The first of three hubs based at the College’s Bromley Campus was launched virtually on Monday 25 January 2021, with more hubs being rolled out across its campuses in Bexley and Greenwich in the weeks to come.
The Youth Hubs form part of the Department for Work and Pensions wider support for young jobseekers which will see them appear all across the UK in a range of settings ensuring those in need get the support they need.
Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said: “Getting Youth Hubs up and running across south east London in the coming weeks means young jobseekers will get the support they need right on their doorstep. Whether it’s getting their foot on the jobs ladder and securing that first role, or moving into a new sector, the experts that run these hubs will be able to find the right opportunities for all those who come for help.
“This is a challenging time for many young people and our Plan for Jobs is a serious investment in the support they need, including running Youth Hubs like this across the country and rolling out the £2 billion Kickstart scheme that is offering paid six-month roles to under 25s. While times are tough, I want young people to know there is still hope and opportunity out there.”
Neil Coates, Vice Principal, HE, Apprenticeships, Employer Engagement and Innovation said: “We are delighted to launch our Youth Hubs in partnership with Jobcentre Plus. Education and skills will play a key role in kickstarting the economy and the careers of thousands of young people who have been adversely affected by the pandemic. We see this as part of our key role in serving the needs our wider community.”
For more information about London South East Colleges Youth Hubs please call 020 3954 4965 or email
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