Business South and Hampshire Careers Hub have launched Futures Forward; a new programme encouraging employers across the Central South to share their expertise and inspire the next generation of talent.
Businesses are being encouraged to give just one hour of their time by welcoming young people into their workplaces to explore career opportunities, gain an insight into the world of work and make informed choices about their futures.
Futures Forward aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by bringing businesses, schools and young people closer together. A collaboration between Business South and Hampshire Careers Hub, the programme will build a network of employer champions willing to share their knowledge and experience. It was officially launched at the Business South Annual Conference on 5 November.
Leigh-Sara Timberlake, Group CEO of Business South, and Katie Bruce, Engagement Lead for MTCP and Enterprise Coordinator for Hampshire Careers Hub, are leading the call for more employers to get involved.
Leigh-Sara Timberlake said: “Businesses have an important role to play in helping young people understand the opportunities available to them and the skills they will need for the future. Futures Forward is about making that connection easier. By giving just one hour of their time, employers can share their experience, inspire young people and help them see the possibilities ahead. We want businesses of all sizes to become champions for the next generation.”
Katie Bruce said: “Young people cannot aspire to careers they don’t know exist. Creating opportunities for them to meet employers, hear about different roles and see workplaces first-hand can open their eyes to a whole range of possibilities. Futures Forward is about helping young people understand what employers are looking for and giving them the confidence to make informed decisions about their futures.”
Employers are being asked to pledge an hour of their time by welcoming young people into their workplace, to talk about their roles, and share the skills they use and the opportunities within their organisations.
With almost one million young people aged 16–24 across the UK not in education, employment or training (NEET), stronger links between education and business are increasingly important. Futures Forward aims to raise aspirations, broaden awareness of career pathways and support the development of the region’s future workforce.
Businesses are invited to become Futures Forward champions and pledge an hour of their time.
To find out more and register your interest, visit the Hampshire Careers Hub on LinkedIn or complete the Futures Forward Workplace Experience registration form.
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