Talking Politics column with Kate Dearden MP: Unlocking potential in Halifax
Hearing that one of the participants in our Youth Employment Hub received their first ever qualification was a powerful example of the difference this programme is making. Now equipped with skills, opportunities and confidence he didn’t have before, his story demonstrates the real impact of our Youth Employment Hub and our wider investment in young people.
Established by this Labour Government to support young people into employment, the Hub delivered by Newground Together has achieved real success over the last year, helping 211 young people take their next steps into the world of work.
Initiatives like these, delivered in the heart of our local community, help open doors for young people who might otherwise struggle to access opportunities. With more than one million young people across the UK not in education, employment or training (NEET), and some of the highest levels of economic inactivity here in West Yorkshire, the need for support has never been greater.
As your local MP, I want every young person in our community to have the opportunity to fulfil their potential. That is why I am proud to support initiatives like the Youth Employment Hub, which are helping young people gain skills, confidence and qualifications.
Providing practical support that meets the needs of our young people and employers is a fundamental first step. It’s why I’ve been pushing government colleagues to extend the Youth Employment Hub, which was initially contracted for one year. Building on this work, I’ll be hosting a Jobs Fair at the King’s Centre between 10am-1pm on Friday, June 19, bringing together local employers and jobseekers while helping attendees build their skills and confidence. Whether you’re starting out in your career, looking to explore new opportunities, or are a local employer, I’d love to see you there.
This is part of a wider package of action and support I’ve been fighting for in our community. Alongside the Youth Employment Hub, I’m delighted to have also helped secure Calderdale College as one of 130 education settings chosen to deliver shorter, flexible, bite-sized courses. These courses will allow people to fit education around their life commitments and upgrade their skills later in life, reflecting the realities many face.
Businesses must be at the centre of this work too. We need strong partnerships with local employers and educators if we are to build the workforce and skills pipeline needed to help grow our local economy. From speaking to businesses, I know they want to offer young people opportunities but have for too long lacked the support to do so.
It’s why, alongside introducing the Youth Guarantee, we’ve announced fully funded apprenticeships and financial incentives for those who hire NEET young people, to help interested businesses to take those first steps.
Only by working together and listening to the needs of our businesses and local community can we achieve real change.
Youth unemployment is a real challenge in Halifax, but it is not one we should accept. Our town is full of talented, ambitious young people who deserve the chance to succeed. By investing in opportunities, skills and support, we can help more young people build rewarding careers, gain confidence in their future and fulfil their potential.