West Suffolk College's One Step Closer programme helps young people back into education and employment

A West Suffolk College initiative is helping young people back into education and employment.

The One Step Closer programme launched this summer to identify and support 16 to 25-year-olds not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Three talent coaches have made contact with 582 young people and helped some of those to write job applications and CVs. They have also delivered training on interview techniques and held workshops.

Part funded and commissioned by West Suffolk Council, it has placed 65 young people on college courses, GCSE courses and in training - with 24 apprenticeships and job vacancies filled.

Talent coach Hayley Smyth said: “We have helped to build confidence in these young people, giving them the self-belief that it is possible to achieve their goals.”

Among those supported was a 17-year-old girl, who suffers from anxiety and became isolated but has started the college’s animal care course.

Meanwhile, a 23-year-old man, previously on a zero-hours contract, has gone on to become a shop manager.