Innovative youth training scheme using sport & mentoring for 16-24 year olds

Street Elite is an innovative youth training scheme which uses sport and mentoring to help unemployed or hard-to-reach young people focusses on young people aged 16 to 24 who are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET). It uses sport as a form of training for work.

The council is working with the scheme’s organisers to identify local candidates who could benefit from this unique programme, which involves football, cricket and rugby, run by The Berkeley Group, Cricket for Change and the Met Police.

The scheme offers intensive support to young people over a period of 9 months and helps them gain the confidence, qualifications and self-esteem needed to get a job or go on to further and higher education.

It has been active in other parts of London for two years and 79 per cent of participants have successfully moved into education, training or work.

Street Elite teaches sports coaching and youth work skills, challenging young people to take responsibility for organising and running their own training sessions and events. They learn how to coach, basic first aid skills and how to handle conflict. They also get access to employment support and work placements for anyone who completes the programme.

The aim is to create confident, motivated people who are ready to work and who feel in control of their lives.

If you know someone who might fit the profile and to find out more contact Si Ledwith - siledwith@cricketforchange.org.uk or call 020 8669 2177.

A breakfast seminar is taking place on 5 November in Vauxhall to showcase Street Elite and debate how to tackle youth unemployment. A few places are still available. Book in and get details via sophie.harrison@berkeleygroup.co.uk.

October 18, 2013