Out-reach scheme helps young people to navigate the world of work

A Haringey-wide out-reach scheme is helping young people to realise their potential and access employment opportunities. 

Haringey Community Gold (HCG) – which is run by a range of partners, including the council – is designed to support young people between the ages of 10-25 in Haringey. HCG runs a range of community programmes for young people at various stages in the cycle of serious harm, exclusion and criminality, helping them to find tangible pathways and maximise their opportunities. As part of its mission, HCG hosted an employment and careers event last month at the Bruce Grove Youth Centre in Tottenham. 

Youth unemployment is a proven issue in Tottenham. According to a 2021 report, Northumberland Park had the highest rate of young people claiming unemployment benefits in the borough at 16% (compared to 6% in Highgate). In 2020, this same ward had the highest unemployment rate in the capital at 17%. Other wards in Tottenham, including Bruce Grove, Tottenham Green and White Hart Lane, also featured in the top ten for unemployment rates in London that year.  

The HCG event featured a panel of local professionals and consisted of a round table discussion between panellists and young people. 

Risley, a youth and family support worker, spoke about university alternatives such as apprenticeships offered by Haringey council and London-wide employers. Seconding this, panellist Jayden Boyce, who secured a full-time role with HCG after completing an apprenticeship with the council, said: “A good thing about apprenticeships is that you get to make mistakes, learn from them and improve through practical application of what you are being taught.” 

During the event, young people were able to discuss the challenges they face when it comes to employment. Common issues raised were lack of work experience opportunities; lack of career progression; provision post-16 and unrealistic expectations. Speaking to HCP, one young person said: “We don’t really know what’s what and where to even start to look for answers. We don’t even know what questions to ask.”

Following the event, councillor Adam Jogee – cabinet member for economic development, jobs, and community cohesion – said: “Haringey’s young people are our greatest strength and have so much to offer. Like many people across our world, they face many hurdles. When it comes to accessing employment opportunities this can be anything from a lack of connections in their chosen sector to a shortage of accessible information about the opportunities available to them.

“This is why events like this are so important. They give young people the chance to hear and ask questions about the journey people take into the world of work.”

Following feedback from the event, HCG has started discussions with The Spurs Foundation for another employment event focused on careers in sport. HCG is planning to host the session in September.