Member Article

North East SMEs encouraged to engage with young talent this summer

The figurehead of Generation NE, a new landmark youth employment programme in the North East, is urging SMEs to connect with the next generation of employees to future-proof their workforce and enhance their business offering, whilst providing young people with valuable work experience.

Through a team of business advisors, Generation NE offers SMEs a free tailored service that will allow them to make connections with young people seeking employment, with continued support.

Councillor Grant Davey, employability and inclusion lead for the Combined Authority and leader of Northumberland County Council, says small to medium-sized businesses have the opportunity to develop local talent right here in the region, by offering young people an insight into the day-to-day running of their businesses, helping to build upon their knowledge and skillset.

He said: “Investing in the workforce of tomorrow is one of the most effective ways for companies to future-proof their business. Young people are eager to be given opportunities to learn in a working environment and can bring fresh, new ideas to the table.

“It’s a win-win situation for both businesses and young people. Businesses can benefit from an extra pair of hands during busy spells, capitalising on the enthusiastic approach to work a young person has, and young people can gain valuable experience of the workplace, picking up new skills, developing their knowledge and growing in confidence.

“Generation NE can help businesses to make the connection with young people by working with them to provide a simplified, coordinated and tailor-made package of high quality supportas well as one-to-one advice on how they can increase the opportunities that they offer to young people.

“I urge any business who is interested in offering the talented youngsters we have right here in the region a chance to shine through work experience to get in touch with Generation NE to find out how they can make the process as easy and streamlined as possible.”

Generation NE is a collaboration between five local authorities, including Newcastle, Durham, Gateshead, North Tyneside and Northumberland, and the North East LEP.

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