Propel social mobility: Invest in youth

Many young people still find their career paths shaped more by where they come from than by their abilities. Recent reports underline our nation’s persistent struggle with social mobility, a challenge that not only impacts the younger generation but ripples through the economic fabric

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on SME Today

Despite our societal strides, young people continue to encounter barriers to education and employment, creating a ripple effect that extends to businesses. If these obstacles persist, a rich and diverse talent pool will remain untapped, exacerbating the skills shortages already challenging companies seeking to fill entry-level positions.

Championing change: Career Ready’s impact

Career Ready is a charity working to reshape this narrative. Their programs connect 15- to 18-year-old students with employers nationwide, offering a year-long journey of meaningful work experience and support.

Primarily targeting individuals from low-income backgrounds, Career Ready pairs them with mentors who provide invaluable advice. The program includes a four-week paid internship during summer, workplace visits, and skills masterclasses, crafting a transformative experience.

While work experience is essential, paid internships wield transformative influence. By removing financial barriers, these internships empower under-represented youth. Traditionally less likely to pursue higher education or secure professional roles, these individuals gain access to opportunities that elevate their skills and potential earnings.

Businesses may join Career Ready’s mission because it aligns with their social responsibility agenda, while others see it as a means of giving back to society and fostering diversity. By volunteering as mentors, employees also benefit from personal growth in coaching and management, contributing to the development of their future talent pipeline.

Funding for SME’s

Career Ready is offering SME’s a dedicated initiative, Internship Investment Fund, which allows them to seek funding to host young individuals for paid internships. This fund targets SMEs, charities, and public sector entities with 10 or more employees, providing them with the means to host young talents for a four-week period during the summer holidays. Applications for funding for the upcoming summer are currently open.

Investing in young talent is not just a strategic move for business; it’s a pledge to shape a brighter, fairer future. To read the full report, click here.