Category: News Hero

How gen AI could be a game changer for young people – if we can bridge the gap

The rise of gen AI is transforming how we work – but what does it mean for young people not in education, employment or training (NEET)?

On a recent episode of Byte Sized, hosted by Accenture’s Emma Kendrew, Movement to Work CEO Sareena Bains and Microsoft UK’s AI National Skilling Director Charles Eales explored this question in depth.

Listen to the full podcast episode: Byte Sized – Episode 7  |  Read the full transcript: Here


“We need to equip young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to harness Gen AI and allow them to navigate the job market as best as possible and then succeed in the world of work.”

Sareena Bains


Movement to Work’s recent research found that while most NEET young people are aware of generative AI, over half have never used it. Just 14.5% have used AI tools to support a job search – mainly due to a lack of understanding and fears around how employers might view it.


“If you’re using Gen AI to replace you, you’re using it wrong. But if you’re using Gen AI to enhance you, you’re using it right.”

Movement to Work Youth Ambassador


To close this gap, Movement to Work has launched a youth engagement plan with Accenture, Microsoft and the DWP. Visiting youth hubs across the UK – from Barking to Blackpool – the team is delivering practical sessions on how to use AI responsibly and effectively to get into work and thrive once there.

Microsoft’s Careers Copilot – an AI-powered chatbot developed with GetMyFirstJob – offers tailored and accessible guidance, based on where a young person lives and what skills they have.


“We know that many NEET young people don’t have ready access to good careers advice or to experts to help them understand the world of work.”

Charles Eales


But it’s not just young people who need support. Youth-facing workers must be empowered too. Movement to Work is providing training to ensure these professionals can confidently pass on knowledge and support.


“We’re also inspiring, educating and upskilling youth-facing workers and youth coaches across the country to ensure that they can pay it forward and support young people on an ongoing basis.”

— Sareena Bains


Listen to the full podcast episode: Byte Sized – Episode 7
Read the full transcript: Here

Creating Meaningful Pathways: The Value of Taster Sessions

Taster sessions are a powerful way to introduce NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people to your organisation. They provide a first-hand look at the workplace, a chance to meet your team, and the opportunity to observe roles in action—while building valuable employability skills and confidence.


Why Taster Sessions Matter

Offering a window into the world of work can have a huge impact. Taster sessions help young people:

  • Discover what different jobs involve

  • Understand what they enjoy (and what they don’t)

  • Build confidence in professional settings

  • Explore whether a career or commute works for them

  • Make more informed decisions about their future

Crucially, this isn’t about filling roles—it’s about opening doors.


Benefits for Employers

Taster sessions don’t just benefit young people, they help employers too. By offering a structured introduction to your workplace, you can:

  • Build a more diverse, motivated talent pipeline

  • Improve alignment between candidates and company culture

  • Boost early-career retention rates by up to 25%*

When young people feel informed, welcomed, and inspired, they’re more likely to apply with confidence and stay committed long-term.


People Make the Difference

The right team members make all the difference. Choose those who are:

  • Passionate about supporting young people

  • Warm, patient, and good at explaining

  • Able to dedicate time to engage meaningfully

These individuals help create a safe, supportive space where young people feel valued and excited about the possibilities ahead.


Focus on Insight, Not Just Recruitment

A great taster session offers young people a chance to explore—not to be evaluated. Keep the pressure low and the inspiration high. The focus should be on:

  • Insight over outcomes

  • Curiosity over qualifications

  • Possibility over pressure

This helps young people feel empowered, not tested.


Be Mindful of Your Audience

NEET young people may be stepping into a professional setting for the first time. A few tips:

  • Keep it clear, simple, and structured

  • Use short, engaging activities

  • Set expectations gently

  • Allow time for questions and reflection

  • Stay flexible and supportive

Ideal group size: 10–15 young people—big enough for energy, small enough for personal attention.


Make It Memorable

Even if they don’t pursue a role with you, a positive experience will stick with them. Use your taster session to:

  • Showcase your inclusive, supportive culture

  • Strengthen your reputation as an employer that invests in future talent

  • Plant the seeds for future applications, referrals, or partnerships


Young People Inspire Young People

Bring in relatable role models—young people already working in your organisation, especially those who joined through similar routes. Hearing their stories can:

  • Build trust and relatability

  • Break down barriers

  • Inspire belief and confidence

  • Create a sense of belonging


Suggested Session Outline

Time Activity Purpose & Impact
15 mins Introductions & Icebreaker Ease nerves and encourage participation
15 mins Company Overview Share your purpose and values
15 mins Experience Share Hear from a young team member
15–30 mins Site Tour Familiarise them with the workspace
45 mins Role Shadowing Observe roles in action with a buddy
15 mins Refreshments Informal space for connection
30 mins Practical Activity Build hands-on, transferable skills
15 mins Next Steps & Recruitment Info Share clear, supportive information

✅ Quick Tips for a Successful Taster Session

  • Keep it welcoming – Warm intros go a long way

  • Be clear and simple – Avoid jargon

  • Show, don’t just tell – Real tasks bring roles to life

  • Choose the right people – Patient, positive, and engaging

  • Be realistic with time – 3–4 hours is ideal

  • Encourage curiosity – All questions are good questions

  • Leave a positive impression – Regardless of the outcome

  • Follow up – Show you care by offering support or signposting next steps


Want Help Running a Taster Session?

We work with a range of youth outreach partners who can help connect you with NEET young people, and we can also link you with the relevant DWP teams in your area.

Email us at info@movementtowork.com to explore how we can support you.


*Source: Youth Employment UK, Key Findings You Need to Know: Benchmark 2024

Sareena Bains – CEO – Reflects on a Day to Remember

From Sareena Bains, CEO at Movement to Work

Back in April, we hosted our Youth Employability Summit & Awards – and now that the dust has settled, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on what the event meant.

Young people, employers, mentors, and partners came together to celebrate the impact of quality work experience and to reimagine what’s possible when we work together.

Take a look at the highlights below:


A Movement in Action

From the dynamic conversations during the day to the emotional highs of the awards in the evening, the whole event was a powerful reminder of why Movement to Work exists – and just how far we’ve come.

We heard from young people whose lives have changed through work placements, and from employers who are reshaping their hiring and training practices to be more inclusive. The sense of community, shared commitment and genuine excitement in the room was incredible.

It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, to the Summit and to have our work recognised in support of the government’s Get Britain Working agenda. From launching YouthPath with the West Midlands Combined Authority to partnering with Microsoft and Accenture to equip NEET young people with the skills to use Gen AI responsibly in their journey toward employment, we’re proud to be part of the effort to help young people into work – and we’re committed to doing even more to support this shared mission.


Introducing: Work Experience Works

One of the standout moments of the night was the launch of our latest campaign: Work Experience Works.

We know that most employers want to support young people, but creating a programme that’s genuinely inclusive, impactful and doesn’t take a whole team to run can feel daunting.

That’s why we’ve created Work Experience Works – a free, practical guide built from real-world insight across our network. It’s packed with clear principles, case studies and simple tips to help employers design meaningful experiences for young people.

Whether you’re hiring early talent, rethinking your outreach, or trying to plug skills gaps, it’s worth downloading our free guidance here – Explore Work Experience Works


Why Employers Are Backing the Movement

We also took the opportunity to ask our partners what the Movement means to them. One message that really captured the spirit of the night came from our incredible host, Ben Shephard:

“The more people that get involved, the more businesses that get involved, the more employers that see the value to this – not just for the young people, but to their businesses as well – the bigger the Movement’s going to get, and the more tangible the change is going to be.”

Watch our event highlights and hear what employers and partners had to say:

Browse the best moments from the night in our photo gallery. 


A Heartfelt Thank You

A huge thank you to all our speakers, panellists, award winners, nominees, and of course, our sponsors:

Smarts, Springpod, Youth Futures Foundation, Cvent, Marriott Hotels, Talent People, Group GTI, NatWest Group, West Midlands Combined Authority.

You made this celebration of youth potential possible, and we’re so grateful for your continued support.


Want to Get Involved?

Ready to chat? Drop us a line at info@movementtowork.com

Generative AI for Your Job Search

Helping young people build confidence and skills with emerging technology

Movement to Work recently hosted a practical session on Generative AI for Your Job Search – designed to demystify AI and explore how it can support you to search and apply for jobs.

Whether you joined us live or are catching up afterwards, this page brings together all the materials from the webinar to help you take the next step in your learning. A huge thanks to our brilliant partners – Microsoft, Get My First Job and Accenture – for helping to make this session happen.


Watch the session

Catch up or revisit key moments from the full training session.

 


Further learning

Explore more ways to build your understanding of generative AI. Each resource below is free, flexible and aimed at helping you feel confident, whatever your starting point. There is a whole host of resources on our Learning Hub but here are a few we’ve selected to get you started:

✍️ AI skills navigator – Microsoft

As mentioned in the training session, unlock new opportunities with AI skills that are in demand now and in the future. Use AI to find the learning path that’s right for you.

✍️ Create effective prompts for gen AI training tools – Microsoft

Learn the basic concepts of prompt engineering – the elements of an effective prompt, and best practices in prompting – that will help produce the desired output from a model.

✍️ Build your gen AI productivity skills – Microsoft & LinkedIn

Learn how to apply generative AI skills to your work to boost your productivity. Learn how to craft prompts, transform raw data into meaningful insights, create compelling presentations, and generate creative images using the latest tools.

Thanks again to everyone who joined the session – and to those catching up now. We’re excited to see how you will use these tools to take your next steps into the world of work.

Got a question we didn’t cover? Or want to know more about getting involved in a future session? Get in touch on the email below.

info@movementtowork.com

Smart Works: Helping Women into Work—One Outfit, One Interview at a Time

Smart Works is a UK charity dedicated to empowering women with the confidence, tools, and support needed to succeed in the workplace.

By providing professional interview coaching and high-quality workwear, Smart Works equips unemployed women with the skills and confidence to excel in job interviews. With a network of 11 centres in cities across the UK, Smart Works has supported over 40,000 women since its launch in 2013. Many of these women face significant barriers to work including long-term unemployment, low confidence or caring responsibilities. An impressive 66% of clients go on to get a job within a month of using the service.

The charity supports women aged 16 and over who are unemployed or on zero-hour contracts, offering them access to a curated selection of high-quality clothing from leading brands such as M&S, ASOS, COS and many more.


The Smart Works Service

Each client can receive:

  • If a client needs help to secure an interview and take the next step toward
    employment, they can have a dedicated hour of tailored career coaching to support
    their unique needs.
  • A high-quality outfit for her job interview, free of charge and hers to keep followed by
    a one-to-one coaching session with an experienced volunteer to prepare for her
    interview.
  • If she’s got the job, she can return for further free clothing to help her start her job
    with confidence!

Our results speak volumes:

  • 66% of women get a job within a month of seeing Smart Works

  • 97% felt more confident in their new interview outfit

  • 94% felt they could answer interview questions more effectively


The Smart Works Unemployment Index

The Smart Works Unemployment Index is our award-winning annual report examining the barriers women face when seeking work.

We look into the specific barriers that women face during their job search and interview process as well as the impact that having a job has on women.

The Smart Works Unemployment Index is designed to offer unique, data-driven insight based on empathetic in-depth conversations we have with our clients. The process of securing a job is increasingly complex but by researching and publishing data on the issues facing unemployed women, we can help pave the way for progress.

Smart Works Unemployment Index 2024


Partnership with Movement to Work

Together, Smart Works and Movement to Work form a partnership focused on breaking down barriers to employment. While Movement to Work creates access to quality work experience opportunities, Smart Works builds confidence and prepares individuals for success through coaching and professional clothing. By combining forces, we help young women not just access employment opportunities but walk into them confident to thrive!


Call to Action: Empowering Women into the Workforce

  • Refer young women you are supporting to Smart Works who would benefit from our one-to-one coaching and interview preparation support.

  • Partner with us to host or co-deliver employability workshops to build confidence and skills among women entering the job market.

  • Promote Smart Works services across your networks to help us reach more women who could benefit.

Let’s work together.

Welcome to Smart Works

Generative AI for Youth Frontline Workers

Helping youth workers build confidence and skills with emerging technology

Movement to Work recently hosted a practical session on Generative AI for Youth Frontline Workers – designed to demystify AI and explore how it can support your day-to-day work with young people.

Whether you joined us live or are catching up afterwards, this page brings together all the materials from the webinar to help you take the next step in your learning. A huge thanks to our brilliant partners – Microsoft, Get My First Job and Accenture – for helping to make this session happen.


Watch the session

Catch up or revisit key moments from the full training session.


Further learning

Explore more ways to build your understanding of generative AI. Each resource below is free, flexible and aimed at helping you feel confident, whatever your starting point. There is a whole host of resources on our Learning Hub but here are a few we’ve selected to get you started:

✍️ AI skills navigator – Microsoft

As mentioned in the training session, unlock new opportunities with AI skills that are in demand now and in the future. Use AI to find the learning path that’s right for you.

✍️ Create effective prompts for gen AI training tools – Microsoft

Learn the basic concepts of prompt engineering – the elements of an effective prompt, and best practices in prompting – that will help produce the desired output from a model.

✍️ Build your gen AI productivity skills – Microsoft & LinkedIn

Learn how to apply generative AI skills to your work to boost your productivity. Learn how to craft prompts, transform raw data into meaningful insights, create compelling presentations, and generate creative images using the latest tools.


Thanks again to everyone who joined the session – and to all the youth workers out there making a difference every day. We can’t wait to see how you take these ideas forward.

Got a question we didn’t cover? Or want to know more about getting involved in a future session? Get in touch on the email below.

info@movementtowork.com

Coalition of Major Businesses Launch Youth Work Experience Campaign

Movement to Work Urges Employers to Break the ‘No Experience, No Job’ Cycle

London, 02 April 2025 – A coalition of major UK employers is taking action to support young people lacking work experience by launching a new campaign amidst the highest number of 16 to 30-year-olds not in education, employment, or training (NEET) in over a decade.

Movement to Work (MtW), a leading not-for-profit organisation working with businesses such as Accenture, BAE Systems, Barclays, Centrica, Diageo, Marriott, M&S, Tesco, and Salesforce, is calling on more employers to make work experience a meaningful pathway into employment for NEET young people through its Work Experience Works campaign.

This initiative unites committed employers and partners to refine best-practice guidance, showcase real-life success stories, and expand access to high-quality work experience opportunities. Through extensive research and collaboration, MtW has developed nine guiding principles for impactful work experience programmes that create real employment opportunities.

The Call to Action: Work Experience as a Solution to Youth Unemployment

With 987,000 young people currently NEET—the highest figure in 11 years—the need for action is urgent. Work experience is a proven tool in tackling youth unemployment, equipping young people with essential skills and exposure to the world of work.

Government initiatives like the Youth Guarantee are positive steps, but for these policies to be effective, they must be supported by structured, high-quality work experience programmes that provide genuine value to young people and employers alike.

CEO of Movement to Work on the Power of Work Experience

“In the face of rising youth unemployment and economic inactivity, removing barriers to work has never been more critical,” said Sareena Bains, CEO of Movement to Work.

“Time and again, young people tell us that the biggest barrier to securing a job is a lack of work experience. This is the harsh reality of the ‘no experience, no job’ cycle—one that leaves too many young people struggling to take their first steps into employment.

“At Movement to Work, we are dedicated to breaking this cycle. For over a decade, we have worked alongside employers and youth outreach organisations to create high-quality, accessible work experiences that do more than just fill a CV gap. These opportunities provide real-world experience, build confidence, support mental health and well-being, and help young people discover the right career path for them.”

Since its inception, Movement to Work has helped deliver over 225,000 youth opportunities, with 89% of participants securing employment, further education, or training. This initiative demonstrates the power of work experience to change lives and create lasting career opportunities.

A Win-Win for Young People and Employers

Work experience benefits both young people and businesses. For young people, it provides essential skills, career exploration, and increased employability. For employers, it opens doors to diverse, untapped talent while fostering the next generation of skilled workers.

Movement to Work has seen firsthand how work experience transforms lives. The organisation urges more businesses to step up, get involved, and support young people on their journey to employment.

Learn more and download the guidance here.

Join the Movement

Employers are encouraged to join Movement to Work’s mission and help expand access to meaningful work experiences for young people across the UK.

For more information on how to get involved, visit www.movementtowork.com or contact info@movementtowork.com.


Case Study: Gabby’s Journey to an Electrician Apprenticeship

Gabby, now in her second year of an electrician apprenticeship with BAE Systems Submarines in Barrow-in-Furness, shares her inspiring journey:

“I left school with two GCSEs—it was never a place where I felt comfortable. I started a business and performing arts courses at college, but life took a difficult turn. After leaving college and overcoming personal challenges, I pursued a Level 3 qualification in business administration and worked various jobs, including as a cleaner and social media assistant. However, I struggled to find stability.

“During the Covid-19 pandemic, I participated in the Government’s Kickstart programme and later joined a ‘Get into Engineering’ course run by the Job Centre, The Prince’s Trust, The Launch Group, BAE Systems, and Movement to Work. I enjoyed it and applied for an electrician apprenticeship.

“I started my training in September 2023, and for the first time, I feel like I’m on the right path, with a permanent job opportunity waiting at the end of my apprenticeship.”


About Movement to Work

Movement to Work is a UK charity that helps employers deliver high-quality employability opportunities for young people aged 16-30 facing barriers to work. The organisation provides fully funded professional support to businesses committed to tackling youth unemployment.

Over the past decade, Movement to Work has facilitated over 225,000 youth opportunities, including work experience, apprenticeships, sector-based work academy programmes, internships, traineeships, and entry-level roles. With an 89% success rate, the initiative has transformed thousands of lives.

Movement to Work’s Steering Group includes executive leaders from Accenture, BAE Systems, Barclays, Centrica, Diageo, Marriott, M&S, Tesco, Salesforce, and Spirax-Group, as well as representatives from The TUC, The CBI, The King’s Trust, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The organisation’s mission is to help young people gain access to valuable work experiences as a pathway to sustainable employment while exposing businesses to diverse, emerging talent.


For media enquiries and interview opportunities, contact info@movementtowork.com.

Ben Shephard Announced as Host for the 2025 Movement to Work Youth Employability Awards

Today, Movement to Work announces Ben Shephard—journalist, presenter, podcaster, and author—as the host of the 2025 Movement to Work Youth Employability Awards.

Ben is a highly respected broadcaster, best known for his work on This Morning, Good Morning Britain, Tipping Point and Ninja Warrior UK. Beyond television, he is also an author, having published his debut book, Humble Heroes: Inspirational Stories of Hope, Heart and Humanity, in 2022.

His passion for inspiring young people and celebrating their achievements makes him the perfect host for this year’s awards.

 

A Message from Movement to Work

Louise Quinney, Chief Operating Officer at Movement to Work, said:

“We’re thrilled to have Ben as the host for this year’s awards. Ben’s dedication to telling human stories and championing achievement aligns perfectly with our mission here at Movement to Work. We’ve had some incredible hosts and special guests over the years, such as Angellica Bell, Konnie Huq, and Hugh Dennis, to name a few, and we’re so happy that Ben is the next to steward this very special event.”

About the Youth Employability Awards

The Movement to Work Youth Employability Awards celebrate:

Young people who have overcome barriers to employment and achieved success.
Employers who are committed to creating opportunities and breaking down barriers.
Mentors and organisations who go above and beyond to support young people in their career journeys.

The event brings together industry leaders, young professionals, and advocates dedicated to tackling youth unemployment and creating meaningful career pathways.

Get Involved

If you’d like to attend this year’s awards, get in touch with the team at info@movementtowork.com.

#MovementToWork #YouthEmployabilityAwards2025

 

Nominees for the 2025 Youth Employability Awards Announced

We are delighted to announce the following nominees for the upcoming MtW Youth Employability Awards on 1st April! Congratulations to all these incredible nominees—you should all be so proud of yourselves!


Best Newcomer – Employer

  • Hays
  • Randstad UK&I

Best Newcomer – Partner

  • AVIARD Inspires / The AMANI Project
  • Caretrade Charitable Trust
  • Key4Life
  • Street League

Employer of the Year

  • BAE Systems
  • Care Leavers Into Careers
  • DWP
  • St George
  • Thames Water
  • Willis Towers Watson

Mentor of the Year

  • Amani Simpson – Aviard Inspires / The AMANI Project
  • Blanch Cameron-Smith – M&S
  • Bristol Temple Street Movement to Work Team – DWP
  • Carla Ballard – DWP
  • Catherine Legg – DWP
  • Darren Holland – DWP
  • Debbie Miller – DWP
  • Eleanor Roper – Springboard UK
  • Frazer Rogers – BAE Systems
  • Gary Bell – DWP
  • Ishtiaq Ahmed – DWP
  • Izzy Miller – Pathway CTM
  • Jayne Barrett – DWP
  • Keith Halliwell – DWP
  • Kieran McVey – Care UK
  • Laura Mustoe – DWP
  • Leisel Quinn – Catch 22
  • Lorraine Coyle-McLaren – Springboard UK
  • Mary Jacobs – DWP
  • Naomi Pitt – DWP
  • Paul Webster – DWP
  • Richard McGowan – Springboard UK
  • Rosie Barrett – Catch 22
  • Sam Meakings & Rob Dell – DWP
  • Sarah Browning – Springboard UK
  • Shelby Bovingdon – DWP
  • Shelly Larsen-McHugh – Manpower Group
  • Shirley Lynch – Northampton Saints Foundation
  • Susan Dunn – DWP
  • Teresa Carthy – DWP
  • Wayne Sattaur – Springboard UK
  • William Holt – DWP
  • Yuliia Salionovych – Shaw Trust

Partner of the Year

  • Generation
  • The King’s Trust
  • The Launch Group
  • PeoplePlus
  • Springboard
  • YouthBuild Ventures

Outstanding Contribution to Young People Award

  • Amani Simpson – AVIARD Inspires / The Amani Project
  • Bristol Temple Street Movement to Work Team – DWP
  • Darren Holland – DWP
  • Donatas Jurevicius – Marriott
  • Donna England – DWP
  • Gary Bell – DWP
  • Gillian Dalziel – Diageo
  • Hannah Simpson – DWP
  • Ingar McVicar – Springboard
  • Joshua Crew – DWP
  • Kayleigh Rotvik – DWP
  • Keith Halliwell – DWP
  • Leigh Maxfield – Thames Water
  • Lynn Makings – DWP
  • Mo Saif – Youthbuild Ventures
  • Moonawara Moostafin Milaqul Hasanath – DWP
  • Naomi Pitt – DWP
  • Rachael Cunningham – Thames Water
  • Rob Dell – DWP
  • Sami Khan – DWP
  • Sam Meakings – DWP
  • Sam Meakings & Rob Dell – DWP
  • Santarna Williams – Catch 22
  • Shelly Larsen-McHugh – Manpower
  • Sherri Holland – DWP
  • Susan Dunn – DWP
  • Waqas Nadeem – DWP

Young Trailblazer Award

  • Ali Karimian Mazidi – DWP
  • Anisa Dahir – Shaw Trust
  • Brandon Tattersall – BAE Systems / King’s Trust
  • Elizabeth Hughes – DWP
  • Holly Franklin – King’s Trust
  • Imogen Colebourne – M&S
  • Imogen Gorn – DWP
  • Jacob Mohammed-Irvine – DWP
  • Jak Mccrae – DWP
  • Katie Stansbie – M&S
  • Lee Kiley – Shaw Trust
  • Megan Chapman – Thames Water
  • Tianna Coulson – Northampton Saints Foundation
  • Umay Nadeem – M&S
  • William Partridge – DWP

Rising Star Award

  • Aaron Sidhu – Marriott
  • Adam Aziz – DWP
  • Adam Lawther – Thames Water
  • Cameron Dedman – DWP
  • Chetwind Peters – M&S
  • Curtis Ewah – Caretrade
  • Daisy Smith – M&S
  • Davina Brown – DWP
  • Frankie Fraser – M&S
  • Harry Royall – DWP
  • Isaac Bryson – DWP
  • Jack Wood – Accenture
  • Jamie Mcphillips – DWP
  • Javan Daniel Kakala – Caretrade
  • Jessica Adams – DWP
  • Katie Billings – DWP
  • Luke Sparrow – DWP
  • Magnus Hayze – DWP
  • Manar Daich – DWP
  • Missy Butler – DWP
  • Naaira Chowdhary – DWP
  • Niall Lilliot – Springboard
  • Nikita Morris – BAE Systems
  • Nikita Weir-Douglas – M&S
  • Oliver (Ollie) Simms – DWP
  • Oliver Smith – DWP
  • Ronnie Andrews – M&S
  • Veronica Sullivan – Spirax Group
  • Wiktoria Stroncik – DWP

Breakthrough Star Award

  • Aaron Sidhu – Marriott
  • Aminat Bello – YouthBuild Ventures
  • Angelika Specht – DWP
  • Bethany Simpson – DWP
  • Caitlin Wild – DWP
  • Chetwind Peters – M&S
  • Cristabell Kyeremeh – DWP
  • Ehimen Omoregie – M&S
  • Emma Mcneill – DWP
  • Florence Murray – DWP
  • Gabriela Scott Chavez – Accenture
  • Hannah Egan – DWP
  • Heather Bethune – DWP
  • Jada Retnam-Mate – DWP
  • Jake Hall – DWP
  • Jake Loney-Pursaill – Manpower
  • Joshua Hargreaves – King’s Trust / M&S
  • Kane Spence – Northampton Saints Foundation
  • Leah James – Accenture
  • Leon Buffham – Springboard
  • Macey Heaps – Thames Water
  • Marian Belu – DWP
  • Mark McGrath – M&S
  • Maryam Rahman – Accenture
  • Megan Mukeza – Aviard Inspires
  • Mike Tyson – BAE Systems / King’s Trust
  • Molly Gaffney – DWP
  • Monchi Lau – Springboard
  • Morgan Eaton-Brown – DWP
  • Richard Rice – DWP
  • Vicky Onilogbo – BAE Systems / King’s Trust

A big thank you to everyone who took the time to submit a nomination—it was a privilege to read your stories.
For any issues with tickets or questions, please reach out to the team at events@movementtowork.com.
Looking forward to seeing many of you very soon!

 

Charity Calls on Chancellor to Break Barriers to Work for Young People in Supported Housing

YMCA, the largest voluntary sector provider of supported housing for young people in England and Wales, has issued an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, urging the Government to address critical barriers preventing young people in supported housing from accessing employment.

The letter, which has been endorsed by a group of charities and businesses, draws attention to findings from YMCA’s 2023 report, Breaking Barriers to Work. The research reveals that systemic challenges, particularly within the benefits system, are trapping young people in supported housing in a cycle of unemployment.

Key challenges highlighted in the report include:

  • The financial penalty of working: Residents of supported housing often lose essential housing benefits after working just 11-12 hours per week, leaving them unable to afford rent.
  • Lower Universal Credit allowances for young people: Those under 25 receive less Universal Credit than their older peers even if they are living without family support, further hindering their ability to achieve financial independence.
  • Practical barriers: High transport costs and work-appropriate clothing make it harder for disadvantaged young people to transition into work.

YMCA-commissioned economic analysis highlights the significant benefits of reform. By providing a Universal Credit work allowance to protect supported housing residents from financial penalties and equalising allowances for young people under 25, the government could welcome up to £11 in tax receipts and welfare savings for every £1 spent.

Denise Hatton, Chief Executive of YMCA England & Wales, said:

“Young people in supported housing face extraordinary barriers to work due to a benefits system that punishes, rather than rewards, ambition. This isn’t just a loss for them—it’s a loss for society and the economy. It’s time for bold action to unlock their potential, ensuring they can move forward with dignity and opportunity.”

Sareena Bains, Chief Executive of Movement to Work, added:

“Young people bring energy, innovation, and fresh perspectives to the workplace. Those in supported housing deserve fair opportunities and a system where work truly makes a difference to their lives. By breaking down barriers, we can create meaningful change for young people and pave the way for a stronger, more prosperous future for our economy.”

YMCA and its partners are committed to working with the Government to ensure every young person, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed in their career and contribute to the community. The letter concludes with a call for collaborative action to end youth unemployment and create a fairer system.


Read the open letter: ymca.org.uk/ymca-open-letter

Full List of Signees:

  • Denise Hatton, CEO, YMCA England & Wales
  • Sareena Bains, CEO, Movement to Work
  • Edward Siegel, CEO, Charity Bank
  • James Musgrave, Finance Director UK&I and Board Sponsor for Social Purpose, Hays Plc
  • Ashby Jenkins, CEO, Ashby Jenkins Recruitment
  • Helen Taylor, Associate Director, C2 Recruitment
  • Polly Neate, CEO, Shelter
  • Rick Henderson, CEO, Homeless Link
  • Emma Haddad, CEO, St Mungo’s
  • Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Community Wellbeing Board, Local Government Association
  • Francesca Albanese, Executive Director of Policy & Social Change, Crisis
  • Balbir Chatrik, Director of Policy and Prevention, Centrepoint
  • Phil Kerry, CEO, New Horizon Youth Centre
  • Carol Gallagher, CEO, Doorway
  • Jonny Whitehead, CEO, Herts Young Homeless
  • Mark Wood, CEO, Colchester Korban Project
  • Mike Jarman, CEO, The Zone Plymouth
  • Dom Wood, CEO, 1625 Independent People
  • David Smith, CEO, Stepping Stone Projects
  • Leon Ward, CEO, MyBnk
  • JJ Tatten, CEO, The Warren Youth Project
  • David Chaffey, CEO, BHT Sussex
  • Esther Barrett, Director of Quality, Performance & Safeguarding, P3 Charity

About YMCA England & Wales

  • YMCA England & Wales comprises 84 member YMCAs working to ensure young people have opportunities to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.
  • YMCAs operate in 708 different communities across England and Wales, impacting the lives of more than 400,000 people every year.
  • YMCA is the largest voluntary sector provider of supported housing for young people in England and Wales, providing a bed for 10,432 people each night and collectively helping more than 20,000 people experiencing homelessness each year.
  • YMCA works with 228,000 children, young people, parents, and carers to provide the best possible start in life, offering support into their teenage years and beyond.
  • YMCA England & Wales enables more than 23,000 people every year to engage in education and training to improve their opportunities in the job market.
  • We welcome 107,000 people through our doors to partake in healthy living activities, helping people of all abilities and experiences to look after their health and wellbeing.

For further information, please visit: www.ymca.org.uk