covid-19 blog

week 6- back on track.

This week our focus is on the role of Libby who is the Key worker for one of our employability projects- Back on Track. The Back on Track project is for young people aged 15 to 17 that are identified as being at risk of NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). This project focuses on supporting participants to develop their self-confidence and motivation to stay in education or move into an apprenticeship. This is how Libby describes the Back on Track project in a nutshell. 

"The project offers support with all aspects of education and employability skills, tailored specifically to the individual. Taking a holistic approach, recognising all potential barriers, supporting and enabling clients to work toward overcoming these and thus maintaining their education or training roles. In providing this support, we endeavour to build knowledge, understanding and resilience within the working world, by guiding clients through CV and cover letter writing, job searching and applications, interview skills and further education options, including college visits, applications and course choices. 
The project is client lead, giving opportunity for responsibility taking, maintaining communications and appointments, as well as having a safe space to discuss the wider aspects of their lives that may affect motivation and ability. In these instances, we offer sign posting, specific need support, multi-agency referral and some opportunities for training."

Here is what Libby had to say about how things have been operating differently over the last few weeks 
"With the current climate and huge shift in the way that we operate as a charity, our support continues remotely. Back on Track continues to maintain appointments over the phone, utilising email to set and achieve objectives and we are also offering food bank parcels to client doorsteps should they be requested. Although young people of this age are facing a unique and unprecedented turn of events with schooling, exams and future planning, most clients are more than happy to continue meeting on the phone and communicate via email, text or WhatsApp. Back on Track is promoting positive focus and ‘keeping the momentum going’ with all clients who are engaging. There is still plenty of work, information and guidance that can be utilised through the remote service and we will continue to accept referrals and maintain effective practice and support for our young people at this very strange and uncertain time."

As with previous weeks, this week we wanted to say thank you to someone else, this week we would like to thank staff and customers at Waitrose Brackley. We were recently part of their green token scheme and it raised a wonderful £312.00 for BYHP.

We also want Thank you to each and every person who has donated to BYHP, particularly during these surreal, unprecedented times. We are able to cut out admin fees and receive your whole donation when it's done via our bank. If you are a UK tax payer, we may also be able to claim an additional 25% of the donation.

Although there have been slight changes to restrictions, we are still being encouraged to stay at home as much as possible. Have you seen the activities hub put together by Cherwell District Council? Lots of fun ideas and activities for the whole family to try here.

Please check in again next week when we will be talking about our other employability project, Unlocking Potential.

Stay Safe everyone :)