Xscape Milton Keynes joins forces with YMCA to boost employment opportunities for young people
YMCA South Midlands and Landsec, owner of Xscape Milton Keynes, have launched a new partnership to help more young people build brighter futures.
The partnership is aiming to help young people develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to move towards meaningful, long-term employment.
To kick-start the relationship, Xscape Milton Keynes has donated £2,000 to support YMCA South Midlands’ work, as well as providing space within the centre to help the charity raise additional funds and develop its project.
Landsec has pledged to support 30,000 people from underrepresented backgrounds towards long-term employment nationwide through its employment programmes, including work placements and internships.
YMCA South Midlands helps young people explore career paths, training opportunities and apprenticeships that match their goals and ambitions. Its support includes practical employability sessions, CV writing and tailored guidance with job applications.
By working together, YMCA South Midlands and Xscape Milton Keynes will raise awareness of the support and opportunities available to young people in Milton Keynes, while helping to connect them with potential employers, mentors and other employment networks.
Dan Murphy, Centre Director at Xscape Milton Keynes, said: “Our partnership with YMCA South Midlands will support young people in the city to build confidence, develop valuable skills and access opportunities that can support their journey into employment.
“As a leisure destination rooted in the local community, we recognise the important role we can play in creating opportunities and supporting organisations that make a real difference. Through this partnership, we hope to give the confidence and skills to explore new possibilities, develop their potential and take positive steps towards a brighter future.”
The partnership comes at a time when youth employment remains a significant national challenge. The Milburn Review, published in May, highlighted that one million young people aged 16 to 24 are not in education, employment or training across the UK.
Elliot Moore, Employment Coach at YMCA South Midlands, said: “Together, we can connect young people with employers, experiences and support that can make a real difference to their futures."
“Work offers more than an income; it provides structure, stability and purpose, all of which can help change the trajectory of a young person’s life."