On the 16th of March, in collaboration with the Together We Can project and the Youth Justice team within Leicestershire County Council, the Youth Justice Team at Leicestershire Cares collaborated to host a Youth Justice Employability and Media Day. The aim of this event was to provide participants who had never participated in a real-life interview with the confidence to attend and excel in an interview. The media session was also designed to provide participants with additional skills which they could utilise to set up their side hustle or host a podcast to create an additional form of income and or create awareness.
The day commenced with a presentation by Sue Woollett, Social Value Manager at Stepnell. Sue Woollett commenced the session by inviting participants to leave their comfort zone and participate in full. All attendees were split into groups and within those groups, they were directed to discuss their personal brand, encapsulated in “three words”. An engaging discussion ensued; thereafter, participants were encouraged to share descriptive words regarding their personal brand with the wider group.
Sue Woollett proceeded to teach participants how to structure their C.V’s as well as the relevant content to include. They were urged to be both professional and truthful to ensure that a prospective employer forms realistic expectations. Sue Woollett also advised that when Stepnell employs new apprentices, they often prefer individuals who have engaged in a variety of education and work experience. She therefore urged applicants to be intentional about developing an area of interest and explore relevant courses and jobs which could enhance their learning. Sue advised that this will help participants cultivate transferrable skills.
Information around interview preparation was also disseminated. Participants were encouraged to properly prepare in advance to enhance the possibilities of success. Participants were advised to dress appropriately for interviews whether it is held in person or virtually.
Participants were subsequently transitioned into a mock interview session where they were interviewed by Danielle Young and Sue Woollett. Although some participants were extremely nervous, they received support and guidance from their youth justice workers and business members.
Taking part in the Youth Justice Employability Day this week was a real privilege. The young people taking part showed such resilience, honesty and determination to build brighter futures. It was inspiring to be able to support them through mock interviews and help boost their confidence.
Youth justice programmes like this are vital in helping young people move away from offending and towards positive futures. By giving them opportunities to build confidence, develop practical skills and connect with supportive professionals, we can help remove barriers and open up pathways into education and employment. It was an honour to be invited to be a part of this. Huge thanks to Leicestershire Cares for all they do with youth justice projects.’
Danielle Young- Partner and Solicitor- Nelsons Law
The day was very good, gathered a lot information
Participant feedback
All was good about today, better than expected, podcast was good loved it, found it useful
Participant feedback
When lunch was concluded, Aaron Todd, commenced the media session by sharing his story. He was intentional about putting participants at ease and showed them how to utilise the podcast equipment. This session encouraged
At the end of the event, participants who arrived looking reserved and, on edge, were smiling and interacting more confidently with both participants and professionals alike.
We would like to extend our gratitude to our business members Sue Woollett, and Danielle Young, Jennifer Rodall, Aaron Todd, Anouska Huczmann, and Chloe Brakes for their support in making this a successful event.
Youth Justice Project Development Manager
Chikodi Lori
chikodi@leicestershirecares.co.uk
To read about our Power to Change approach, click on the link below:
https://www.leicestershirecares.co.uk/about-charity/our-approach/power-to-change/#:~:text=We%20believe%20our%20power%20to,city%20and%20county%20for%20all.
For more information and insight into our Youth Justice Projects click the links below:
https://www.leicestershirecares.co.uk/about-charity/news-events-/veda-self-care-event/