Through YouthPath, we connected Cunliffes, an architecture, construction and property consultancy, with the youth charity Thrive to create new work experience opportunities for NEET young people in Liverpool. Following an insight day, Tom was selected – and that’s where his journey began.
After several years out of work, Tom was struggling to get responses from employers.
Tom said: “None of the companies that I was applying for were getting back to me, not even to say that my application was unsuccessful.”
He was also navigating personal challenges:
Tom explained: “I also struggled with the possibility that I could have ADHD… I was struggling tremendously with attention and motivation issues.”
Despite this, Tom secured a placement at Cunliffes. Naturally, he felt nervous at first:
Tom said: “It was nerve wrecking… I hadn’t worked for about 4 years.”
But his confidence quickly grew:
Tom said: “Once it actually began it felt good to be able to learn new skills in an environment that suited me.”
During the placement, Tom gained hands-on experience of a professional consultancy – shadowing team members, learning about design processes, and completing a week-long project using SketchUp to 3D model a house.
Now, he’s focused on the future:
Tom shared: “I’ve decided to begin reaching out to companies such as game developers for 3D modelling work. I am also considering doing an internship.”
He also has a clear message for employers:
Tom said: “Most employers should be part of these networks… It allows more young people to gain opportunities. I wish more employers would understand how tough the job market is and offer more entry-level positions… or more training programmes.”
A Partnership That Delivers
This placement was made possible through YouthPath, bringing together Cunliffes and Thrive in a strong, purpose-driven partnership. Cunliffes offered industry expertise and a supportive environment, while Thrive provided the wraparound support that helped Tom succeed.
Reflecting on the experience, Mark Gotham, Director at Cunliffes, said:
“All involved viewed this as a positive experience and enjoyed assisting Tom. Having a young person to pass knowledge onto definitely gave staff energy. Tom’s enthusiasm confirmed that working with Movement to Work was something we want to continue and develop.”
For Cunliffe’s, this is just the beginning. Following a successful first placement, plans are already underway to create more work experience opportunities, with the potential to introduce apprenticeships in the future.
Join YouthPath
If you’re an employer based in the Liverpool City Region, join YouthPath LCR and help more young people gain the experience and confidence they need to succeed.
Movement to Work provides expert, fully-funded support to help businesses:
- Develop or strengthen youth employment programmes.
- Access a diverse, motivated talent pipeline.
- Make a real impact on their local community.
This place-based initiative is also running in the West Midlands region and Greater Manchester Region in partnership with regional combined authorities. For more information on how to get involved, visit: https://movementtowork.com/youthpath/
Together, we can unlock opportunity, strengthen communities, and build a brighter future for NEET young people.