INTRO FROM REGIONAL LEAD

Sustainability is the theme of this edition of the Chamber magazine and it would be a missed opportunity for me to not reflect on the work DYW is doing to encourage sustainable practice across our initiatives. The crucial role that employers have in supporting young people during their education and beyond is nothing new. However DYW are well positioned to support employers to connect easily with schools and young people whether that is by promoting vacancies, arranging career events or offering work placements. The DYW team are here to support.

We fund over 120 innovative projects across Ayrshire and the majority of this funding is to leave a DYW legacy. We are always looking for new industry experts to support these projects which can also benefit the employer by working with their future pipeline of talent. There are many ways for employers to engage with young people and a great way to do this is by engaging directly through the curriculum. By linking subjects or topics to the world of work can leave a long-lasting impression. These links are more sustainable as they allow teachers to embed these discussions in their lessons by bringing real life and often local examples to a student's learning.

Our DYW team are always keen to hear from local (and national) employers who would like to engage with our young people across Ayrshire. Even the shortest of engagements can have a huge impact on the future decisions of young people. Please get in touch with the team by emailing info@dywayrshire.com.

Gillian Longmuir, Regional Lead at Developing the Young Workforce –Ayrshire

The Young Persons Guarantee is a unique opportunity for businesses to develop a planned strategic approach to engaging young people in their organisation. By offering apprenticeships, work experience placements, and trainee opportunities, businesses can benefit by taking an active role in supporting local young people in their career development. This means that employers can invest in young people, while providing them with valuable experience and training that will set them up for a successful career.

A big Summer Edition thank you to all the organisations that have pledged (or renewed!) the Young Person’s Guarantee. Since January this year we have had 2 businesses pledge and 4 businesses renew their pledge to the Young Person’s Guarantee. Between them, offering over 32 work placements, 31 Modern Apprenticeships, 15 Graduate Apprenticeships and 7 Foundation Apprenticeships – what great opportunities for young people in Ayrshire!

New YPG Employers:

• Booth Welsh

• Spirit Aerosystems

YPG Employers that have renewed their pledge:

• The Savoy Park Hotel

• The Memory Boxes Company

• Thorne Travel

• Ashleigh Construction

How can it benefit your organisation?

• Increase your business profile within the community

• Get early access to the future talent pipeline

• Develop and motivate your existing staff

• Raise awareness of your industry and organisation

• Contribute to your corporate social responsibility

• Support the curriculum to ensure it is industry relevant to prepare young people for the future workforce

Get in touch at info@ dywayrshire.com