Kickstart — helping young people
Over the past six months, we have been lucky enough to be able to offer a number of different roles as part of the Government-led Kickstart scheme. Thanks to the teams who opened their doors to Kickstart candidates, the placements have been a great success. We asked our managers why they chose to be involved and how they’re finding it so far. Here’s what Michael and Jackie had to say…
Jackie Shakespeare — Agency Team Manager, Adults & Health
“I chose to host a Kickstart placement as I wanted help break the cycle of people being rejected for a job because they don’t have experience, and not being able to gain the experience because they don’t have a job.
I didn’t really know what to expect, or even what we would specifically need to offer, but there was so much support available from the Kickstart team via drop-ins and update emails, that I felt I couldn’t go wrong. There was also a great deal of support for Kickstart employees too.
I have found it very rewarding to watch my Kickstarter grow in confidence. And on the reverse of this, they have brought their own knowledge and skills to the team — especially when it comes to I.T! But mostly it has meant that someone who may never have had a chance to ‘get their foot in the doorway’, is not just ‘in’, but is now able to start working towards becoming a qualified Social Worker at Buckinghamshire Council. It’s a win-win!”
Michael Harris — Senior Library Manager, Communities
“I chose to support the Kickstart programme because I saw an opportunity to help a young person gain a foothold on the employment ladder. For some people, this is a monumental step. Prior to working in the library, I had spent 7 years supporting people who were long-term unemployed, or unemployed due to health and mental health obstacles. I know how difficult it can be for some to find paid employment opportunities. I’m also keenly aware of the benefits of employment. Not only does it provide income and financial independence, but it also offers opportunities to meet new people, learn skills, and can give meaning, purpose, and a sense of identity. There are health and mental health benefits. I genuinely believed we could make a positive difference to someone.
Hosting our Kickstarter was such a positive and worthwhile experience. To watch them grow in confidence, capability and character was so rewarding. The quiet and shy Kickstarter from October was gone, and in their place was an engaged and committed member of the team. The team also benefitted from having the opportunity to work with a young person and pass on their skills and experience. It gave team members the opportunity to develop their own coaching and mentoring skills.
Our Kickstarter has now completed a 6-month placement. I’m happy to say that they have moved on to a role in a career path that they are passionate about. My team and I wish them the very best and are eager to hear how they get on!”
We’re incredibly proud that we have been able to offer 45 local young people work placements as part of the Government-led Kickstart scheme. These placements can mean a lot to those taking part in the scheme — you can read more about the experiences of employees on the programme here: https://buckscareers.medium.com/opening-doors-for-young-people-142c96b8a435
To find out more about employment opportunities with Buckinghamshire Council, including early careers, visit: jobs.buckinghamshire.gov.uk
