Programme supporting young people is now open

A Council programme that helps care experienced young people to map out their next steps in life is open now for applications.

First Steps is an employability initiative that runs four times over the course of a year for care experienced North Ayrshire residents aged 16 to 24.

It offers opportunities in activities such as food hygiene, cooking, barista skills, team building, First Aid, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and a host of other group and interactive training sessions.

Most participants go on to work experience, further education or training – and tailored work experience is included.

It is ideal for young people who are thinking about their future but are unsure where to start and would like support when considering work, college, training and volunteering options.

It is a great way for people across North Ayrshire to build on existing skills and move forward in a friendly and relaxed environment, and participants who achieve a 100 per cent attendance and engagement rate will receive £55 weekly.

Feedback from people who have completed the course has been positive, and 17-year-old participant Axel, from Irvine, said: “The highlight, for me, was getting to learn about First Aid. I am now exploring becoming a volunteer with St Andrew’s First Aid as I feel this is something I would be really good at.

“The programme really helped me feel more confident in myself and in my abilities, and also helped me make new friends.

“I would recommend the course to my friends and any other young people who are perhaps feeling unsure about their future and what type of job they would like as First Steps really helped me feel better about my future.

“I am now enjoying work experience in Barnardo's … and know I can make a difference.”

First Steps is run under the banner of the Council Employability service’s Your Next Move, Working North Ayrshire programme.

You can find out more about the course starting on 22 April by sending an email to the team.

You can also find out more about employment support for young people that is available through the Council and partners on this dedicated web page.