West Suffolk College announce One Step Closer scheme to bring hundreds of NEETs into work or education

West Suffolk College has announced a scheme aimed at getting hundreds of young people into education or work.

Starting from April, the One Step Closer scheme will see three talent coaches start working with NEETs (not in education, employment or training) at the college in Out Risbygate, Bury St Edmunds.

Vice principal of employer engagement Laraine Moody said it will be a ‘talent matching service’ that will see these coaches, who all have backgrounds in recruitment, helping 16-21 year-olds.

This could be to secure voluntary placements, access training, complete qualifications and prepare CVs or applications. It will leave the individuals well-placed to apply for positions within local companies, for whom the college has many connections.

“Business sectors across West Suffolk are all crying out for new people with the right skills." Lance Stanbury

The college is hoping at least 125 non-students will benefit from the service in its first year.

“It will make a significant positive impact on the success of individuals participation in apprenticeships, social mobility and subsequently the productivity of the local economy,” said Ms Moody.

West Suffolk councils are partly funding the scheme, which they commissioned as a way of boosting the local workforce.

Forest Heath councillor Lance Stanbury, cabinet member for planning and growth, said: “Business sectors across West Suffolk including construction, hospitality, engineering and manufacturing, health and social care are all crying out for new people with the right skills.”

After launching the scheme last week, the college is set to hold an event with the council this summer for young people and employers.