Employment and Enterprise - YEP

Skills Session

The Youth Engagement Programme (YEP) recently held its first skills session. Jane and Eileen (YEP Key Workers) led the session, which focused on transferable skills, CV writing, and cover letter creation.

The session helped young people see that they already have useful skills. These skills often come from hobbies, school, or everyday life. Jack and Lola joined the session and learned something surprising. Jack found out that his love for LEGO helped him build pattern recognition skills. Lola discovered she has a growth mindset, which will help her in her dream job as an editor.

Everyone worked on their CVs and learned how to show off their skills in cover letters. They talked about how to match their strengths to different jobs.

"I’ll re-structure my CV and cover letter with the new skills I’ve learned I have." - Lola

“The interactivity and how relatable it was” were his favourite parts." - Jack

Helping young people recognise and develop their skills is a key part of building confidence and preparing for the world of work. These sessions aim to show that no skill is too small or too niche - everything can be valuable. By learning how to talk about their strengths, young people are better equipped to apply for jobs. They help young people to explore career paths, and feel proud of what they bring to the table.

We’re excited to run more sessions like this. We love seeing young people discover their unique skills and goals. Each person brings something special, and these sessions help them see it.

If you are 16-24 and NEET and would like to attend this or other similar employability sessions, book your spot by emailing: yep@cornwall.gov.uk

To learn more about Skills Sessions please see our flyer in the documents section on this page.

Harry at work

Go Harry!

Harry D has just started an exciting new role as a Cycle Technician with The Cornwall Bicycle Project. With support from the Youth Engagement Programme (YEP), Harry has landed his dream job!

Wishing Harry all the best, he fully deserves this! - Jane (Key Worker)

Harry joined the YEP programme with a clear passion for bikes. His key worker saw Harry had an interest in bikes. So, she helped arrange a work experience placement with The Cornwall Bicycle Project. This gave Harry the chance to learn hands-on bike mechanics. He got to help recycle old bikes, and meet a wide range of customers.

The placement was a great fit for Harry. He gained confidence, developed new skills, and thrived in the busy environment. The team also made sure the role supported the individual needs outlined in his EHCP. They helped Harry to feel comfortable and included.

Thanks to his hard work and dedication, Harry was invited to apply for a Cycle Technician role - and he got the job! His journey shows how the right support and opportunities can make a big difference.

"Harry is so excited to start and has really settled in well at the bike project. This has given him a real confidence boost. " - mum

A huge thank you to The Cornwall Bicycle Project. Thank you for recognising Harry’s potential and giving him this chance to shine

We wish him the best of luck in this exciting new role.

Naked Solar Isaac is a determined and enthusiastic young man from Kilkhampton, near Bude. This September, he will start a supported internship with Naked Solar. Naked Solar is a leading solar panel company near Newquay that has grown a lot recently. This is a big step for Isaac. He is autistic and has always wanted a job where he can use his practical skills and his business ideas.

From a young age, Isaac liked hands-on work and sales. He wanted to learn more, so he tried for an apprenticeship with The National Grid. He worked hard to get a place on their national programmes. But living in North Cornwall made it hard for him to find chances like this, even though he was very dedicated.

Now, with help from the team at Naked Solar, Isaac is ready to succeed. His internship will start in the company’s new office. There, he will learn about every step of solar projects. He will learn about solar projects from the first question to the finished installation. This hands-on experience will teach him about renewable energy. It will also help him build the skills and confidence he needs for his future career.

Jacob Wheeler, Training Coordinator at Naked Solar, shared his excitement about Isaac joining the team:

“We’re really looking forward to working with Isaac. His enthusiasm and drive are exactly what we value here at Naked Solar. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long and rewarding journey for him.”

Isaac’s story shows why it is important to give everyone a fair chance. When young people get support to follow their dreams, they can achieve great things. This is true for everyone, no matter their background or location.

Kyle's Journey

At the same time, Jane (YEP Co-ordinator) was working with an employer. The employer needed an apprentice to help with his growing kitchen fitting business. Jane contacted the employer and arranged for them all to meet and talk about this opportunity.

Preparing for the Opportunity

Before the meeting, Jane worked with Kyle on his employability skills. She practiced interview techniques, talked about employer expectations, and updated his CV.

The meeting went well, and the employer offered Kyle a work trial for the following week. Jane coached Kyle before the trial and explained what the job would be like. She gave Kyle tips on how to be on time, dress properly, take initiative, and meet the employer’s expectations. She also completed a work experience form with the employer.

Cornwall Councils work experience team contacted the employer and completed all the necessary checks.

From Trial to Full-Time Work

Kyle completed a successful trial day and was offered a work experience placement. Jane stayed in regular contact with both Kyle and the employer during this time.

At the end of the placement, they held another meeting to discuss next steps. Kyle said he didn’t want to return to college to complete the educational part of an apprenticeship. So, the employer asked for help writing a contract, which YEP supported. YEP also helped to negotiate Kyle’s wage.

Kyle has been working full-time since Tuesday 1 July and is loving his new job. He’s learning new skills and travelling across the Southwest for different jobs. His confidence has grown, and he now sees a bright future ahead. He’s also learning to drive and is excited about saving for his first car.

A Positive Impact

The employer was so pleased with the process that he’s asked us to help him find two more employees. He said it takes the stress out of recruiting, as we match the right young person to the job, set up the work trial, and monitor progress for six months.

“Jane got me signed up onto YEP and very quickly got me a job which I absolutely love and am extremely grateful for. I’m learning loads of new skills, I have something to get up for and money in my pocket. The best thing is that I am proud of myself and that’s new. My friends all went away to college, I felt left behind and a bit lost to be honest. Now I can take them out for Maccies instead of the other way round—and I’m saving for a car.”— Kyle

Well done Kyle, Jane and the YEP Team!

YEP You Can!

YEP helps another young person. When this young person joined YEP in 2024, they faced several challenges. This included anxiety, dyslexia, and not having English or Math qualifications. Their goal was to become “Job Ready.” They wanted to create a CV and cover letter, practice interview skills, and search for jobs online.

They were eager to learn and improve their skills. So, they took part in one-on-one support with YEP key worker Ryan. Together, they worked on their CV and cover letter, focusing on their strengths. This helped boost their confidence.

“I didn’t realise how good I was at things.” – young person

Ryan, supported them with mock interviews. These sessions helped build confidence and improve their answers. They also learned how important it is to research companies and tailor applications.

When the young person felt ready, Ryan provided a laptop through the Digital Inclusion Scheme. This allowed them to study for English and Math qualifications. Both their key worker and teacher noticed their growing confidence. They now ask questions when they need help and show determination when solving problems. They are set to take their Math exam at the end of July 2025 and will then begin their English course.

After finishing their studies, this young person hopes to work in animal care. They would like to work in a dog kennel, using their husbandry and welfare skills to care for dogs.

Alongside their studies and job search, the young person has grown in confidence. They are now more open to talking about their goals and future.

In their own words: “I feel more confident with the future and am happy that I now have a structured plan for the time being.”

Another fantastic example of how YEP can help young people.

Ryan's success with YEP.

Referred from the People Hub, Ryan joined the YEP Project looking for support with job searching and training opportunities. As someone with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), he needed tailored guidance.

Building Confidence After Setbacks

Ryan shared with his adviser, Jane, that school had been a difficult experience. After leaving, he completed a Study Programme and worked in a factory, but the job lasted only four days. He had attended a few interviews but hadn’t secured a role. These experiences affected his confidence. He admitted feeling scared and anxious about his future.

Ryan has ADHD, which he doesn’t see as a barrier - but he feels others sometimes do. He explained that his lack of experience makes job hunting harder. Despite applying for jobs, he often doesn’t hear back, which is discouraging. He has had a few interviews but gets nervous and sometimes says the wrong things.

Taking Steps Toward His Dream

To help with job applications, Jane arranged a laptop for Ryan to use. She did this through the Digital Inclusion Scheme, as he had been relying on his phone. Ryan shared that his dream job is in the IT industry, and he’s looking for a role that offers support and training.

Jane and Ryan discussed ways to build his IT skills. He agreed to join an Adult Education course to gain a qualification and experience.

Exploring Supported Internships

Jane introduced Ryan to Project Search and Supported Internships offered by Cornwall Council. These internships provide real work experience with support and can lead to paid employment. Ryan could also continue claiming Universal Credit. He could do this because internships are part of an education programme.

Jane supported Ryan through the application process, and he was offered an interview.

Overcoming Travel Barriers

Ryan wasn’t sure how to get to Truro for his interview. Although he had a bus pass, the journey required three changes. He had never travelled by train and wasn’t even sure if he’d been to Truro before. Jane met him at the train station and helped him buy a ticket. She also helped him understand train times and how to find platforms.

Ryan took part in mock sessions before the interview to help him prepare. This helped to build his confidence before his interview.

“It was nerve-racking being in such a big space, but exciting to know that’s where councillors make decisions.” – Ryan

Success and Next Steps

Ryan completed two interviews at the council offices. This included one in the council chamber. He impressed the panel and was offered a Supported Internship starting in September. He will work across different departments and attend Cornwall College one day a week. Ryan said he is really excited to begin.

Jane contacted the Jobcentre to explore funding for a railcard to help with travel costs. The college will support his bus travel each week.

To help build confidence and teamwork skills, Jane supported Ryan. With support Ryan applied for a volunteering role. at his local British Heart Foundation shop over the summer.

Brooke's Journey

Background

Brooke joined the Youth Engagement Project (YEP) in 2024. She was referred because she struggled with self-confidence. She suffered with social anxiety and was uncertain about her future. She was applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) due to learning difficulties.

Brooke said, “I felt like a failure, and I couldn't see getting past my 17th birthday.”

After a positive year with YEP, the project received more UKSPF funding in 2025. Brooke reached out again to keep building on her progress. She wants to move closer to education, employment, or training.

Challenge.

Brooke started a Childcare course at college, thinking it was the right choice. But she soon realised it wasn’t for her. Her low self-worth and anxiety made it hard to stay motivated. She also lacked direction, which made it difficult to make decisions about her future.

Support

Through YEP, Brooke was referred to Argyle Community Trust for one-to-one mentoring. Her mentor helped her rebuild confidence and explore realistic next steps. They met weekly to talk through her concerns and create a personal plan.

Brooke shared her love for physical activity, especially surfing. Her mentor helped her get a gym membership. They also went on active walks at the local athletic track. These sessions helped Brooke reconnect with what made her feel strong and motivated.

Outcome

In 2025, Brooke made big progress through YEP. She signed up for more support with Argyle Community Trust in April. Soon after, she began training for her Lifeguard and Surf Instructor Qualification. This was with the same group that ran her weekly surf club. She also made new friends and started her first job as a waitress at a local café.

Brooke said, “I am so proud of how far I have come. I am planning my future and so excited for all the opportunities I now have in front of me.”

Her mentor added, “It has been amazing to see how far Brooke has come. Her resilience has grown stronger and stronger, and you can see her independence growing as well.”

Conclusion

Brooke’s story shows how the right support and encouragement can help a young person face challenges and build a better future.

Jamie first got involved with the YEP Project in 2024. After talking about the support available, it was decided that he wasn’t ready to take part yet.

In April 2025, YEP continued with UKSPF Year 4 funding. Jamie felt more prepared and wanted to move forward toward future opportunities. At that time, he wasn’t ready to go back into education and didn’t feel confident about getting a job. He said he wanted to learn more about animation and hoped to work in game development one day.

Jamie received support from Cornwall Council, Pentreath, and Mind. These organisations worked together to explore other services that could help him move into work or education. At the same time, Jamie got help applying to Homechoice and the DWP for PIP support.

While accessing these services, research was done to explore paths into games development. It became clear that local options in Cornwall were limited unless he went to university. Jamie was supported in learning about the qualifications available. He discussed the course content, different options, and the facilities at Falmouth University. Based on this, Jamie decided to apply to university, aiming to start in September 2026.

The YEP Project is helping Jamie with his university application. We are also arranging a supported tour of the campus. Once the university confirms his enrolment, YEP will continue to support him with important life skills, like managing money. These skills will help him make the most of this great opportunity.

Jamie’s journey shows that no path should be ruled out. YEP doesn’t only offer activities—it also gives one-to-one support. YEP, allows each young person to explore the opportunities they are interested in. Where possible, barriers are removed so they have the best chance to succeed.

“Without YEP I wouldn’t have even thought of applying to Uni.” – Jamie, 19/6/25

Jack’s Journey from Unemployment to a Digital Internship

At 23, Jack had never worked and believed employment was out of reach. Despite achieving a Level 3 qualification in Media Studies, his autism and ADHD had presented barriers to finding a job. He spent most of his time at home gaming and watching YouTube. Referred onto YEP!, Jack began working with The Education Business Partnership (EBP) to explore supported internships—a government initiative designed to help young people with special educational needs into employment. His journey started at Liskeard Library, a hub for YEP! partner Real Ideas, which also delivers the Digital Futures programme, offering training in digital skills. Recognising Jack’s potential, Real Ideas and EBP collaborated to tailor their Digital Natives course, providing hands-on experience in content creation and immersive technology.

Jack quickly engaged with the programme, demonstrating creativity and enthusiasm. He excelled in social media content creation, using 360 cameras and Canva to produce professional, branded assets. His writing skills also shone through in engaging social media posts. With support from EBP and Real Ideas, Jack refined his CV to showcase his newly acquired skills. As his confidence grew, he was encouraged to attend an open day at Hertzian, a tech company. With guidance from both organisations and his father, Jack made a strong impression, securing a valuable internship opportunity. YEP! provided him with a work computer, while his father supported him with a phone, ensuring he had the tools needed to succeed.

Jack now works remotely from home and meets his United Response work coach in-person at Liskeard Library, a setting that supports his ASD and ADHD needs. As he prepares to move to Plymouth, United Response is pioneering a new approach, providing remote work coaching for the first time. Jack describes the experience as life-changing: “Working in the library is really supportive, especially for my ASD and ADHD. My work coach and my supervisor at Hertzian are very supportive, and they generally help me out a lot.” His journey highlights how a tailored approach, collaboration, and the right support can transform opportunities for young people with additional needs.