Agenda item

Report Attached

Member of the Committee were reminded that they were expected to have read the report in advance of the meeting.

Councillor Walmsley Cabinet member for Children and Young People presented an overview of the report, highlighting the importance of early intervention and ensuring young people can access opportunities at the earliest stage. The report provided an overview of recent national policy developments, trends relating to vulnerable groups, re-engagement activity with education, and the support available to reduce the number of young people who are not in education, employment of training (NEET).

Andy Bradburn Service Manager Department for Children and Young People advised that the definition and scope of NEET’s had broadened in recent years. He explained that the report focused on both the Councils statutory duties and support available for young people aged 16 to 24, with further work being undertaken to review and refine reporting arrangements.

Councillor FitzGerald asked about employment opportunities available to young people in Bury, the effectiveness of job training programmes, and what more local businesses could do to support young people into education, employment and training.

Andy explained that monthly reporting and monitoring arrangements were in place and included information on education, employment and training outcomes. He advised that apprenticeship numbers had increased by approximately 12% during the current year, although levels remained below those seem between 2010 and 2019. He noted that further opportunities and incentives may emerge following the publication of the forthcoming Milburn Report.

Councillor Walmsley commented that additional incentives and government funding were required to ensure that the right provisions were available locally and nationally to support young people.

Andy also highlighted developments linked to Atom Valley noting the potential benefits and future opportunities for young people within the borough.

Councillor Walmsley referred to discussions about young people leaving colleges and universities work being undertaken through the neighbour hub at the Mill Gate, which support with job applications and CV writing. It was noted that some young people required greater support in developing employability and life skills.

Councillor Boles sought clarification regarding the role of Connexions and the support available for students at risk of becoming NEET.

Andy advised that commissioned provision was being delivered through Bury EST and other partners, with work underway to broaden opportunities to young people. He outlined the targeted support provided through connexions, particularly for those identified as being at risk of becoming NEET.

The Committee heard that support was focused on ensuring successful transitions from secondary education into further education, with particular attention given to young people in Year 13, where NEET risks can increase. Members were advised that officers generally had a good understanding of where young people were and what support they required. Opportunities were available through organisations including the YMCA, Bury College and other training providers, although officers acknowledged that further work remained to be undertaken.

Ben Dunne further explained that work was being undertaken with schools and colleges to identify young people at risk of becoming NEET at and earlier stage. Partnership working with Bury College was helping to support young people into mainstream education, with the aim of improving retention and long term educational outcomes.

It Was Agreed:

·       The update be noted