Northampton charity launches partnership scheme linking local businesses with young people
A Northampton-based charity has introduced a new community partnership initiative aimed at helping young people gain practical work experience while encouraging local businesses to play a role in skills development.
The Job Skills Training Association, which works with young people through training and employability programmes, has started the scheme to give participants the chance to work on real projects with local businesses while completing their training.
The charity says the programme was developed after observing that many young people complete courses but struggle to move into employment because they lack sufficient real-world workplace experience.
Through the initiative, local businesses can support the programme by allowing trainees to assist with simple supervised tasks such as social media content, promotional materials, basic photography, and other entry-level digital work. The activities form part of structured training designed to help young people build confidence and understand how businesses operate.
The charity recognises businesses that take part in the scheme as Community Youth Support Partners, a title given to organisations that contribute to providing opportunities for young people in the local area.
As part of the project, some participating businesses may also choose to keep a small voluntary donation box on their counter, with funds going towards training sessions, equipment, and work experience opportunities for young people involved in the programme.
The charity hopes the initiative will help strengthen links between local employers, training providers, and the wider community in Northampton, while giving young people a clearer pathway into work.
A chair of the charity said the goal is to make training more practical and connected to real life.
“We want young people to leave training with real experience, not just certificates. Working with local businesses helps them understand the workplace and prepares them for employment.”
The organisation says it plans to expand the partnership programme across Northamptonshire if more businesses show interest.
More information about the initiative is available on the charity’s website www.jobskillstraining.org.uk.