Barclays Wealth and Investment Management has announced the launch of the Barclays Enterprise Training Programme, working in partnership with the Children’s Centre, the Department of Economic Development and Paragon to help address the issue of young people not in employment, education or training (NEET). 

The training programme is at the heart of Cultivation - the Social Enterprise Hub, based at the Children’s Centre Community Farm.

The Barclays Enterprise Training Programme will offer three groups of six young people a three month placement over a 12 month period, using enterprise as a foundation. The programme aims to develop and encourage the skills, behaviours and attitudes of those involved to increase their chances of obtaining employment.

Participants will also be given a challenge - they will receive a cash investment (‘seed money’) to develop an enterprise in order to bring a return within two months. If successful, they will receive a share of the proceeds.

Each participant will be paired with a mentor from Barclays within the first few weeks of the programme. Mentors will work with the individuals to help develop their confidence and money skills.

John Knight, Chief Executive of the Children’s Centre commented: “Cultivation aims to combine the essential elements of education, challenge and fun in providing aspiring young adults with the opportunity to take positive steps towards employment. We are very grateful for the extension to the programme that Barclays’ funding has enabled both in the time that young people get access to training and development and also in the new and exciting element of mentor support.”

Chair of Barclays’ Charity Committee, Stuart Nelson: “Barclays employees voted the Children’s Centre as one of their charities of the year for 2013. As part of our commitment to the Isle of Man community we’re able to offer support with both important fundraising and through volunteering for invaluable projects like the Enterprise Training Programme – which we anticipate can make a real difference to both participants and mentors.”

“Barclays is committed to supporting employees throughout the length of the programme and have ensured suitable training is provided. We are delighted to be involved with the Children’s Centre and partners for this vital project helping to boost opportunities for young people in the Island and we are looking forward to this project developing during the year.”

For anyone interested in finding out more about the NEET’s programme or taking part please visit the job centre. 
  
Photo - Jamie Joughin and Stewart Nelson from Barclays and Juana Warburton and John Knight from the Children’s Centre