HeadStart Action

Our HeadStart programme (in partnership with London Youth/Family Action) supports disadvantaged young people to develop the skills, experiences and confidence needed to secure and stay in employment.

As a ‘pre crisis’ intervention HeadStart is a programme for young people aged 16 – 24 who are not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) or who are at a high risk of becoming NEET.

More than 790,000 young people in the UK are NEET, a 23% rise over the last two years. This is 12.5% of all British young people. The long-term impacts of youth unemployment are extremely costly, not only the emotional and physical well-being of young people but for society as a whole. It is estimated that youth unemployment could be costing the economy billions in lost GDP.

The reason why young people end up on a path to not being ready for employment can be varied and complex. Poverty, disadvantage, the uneven playing field of education and health all play a part. At The Wickers, we understand the challenges young people face in their search for employment which is why we invested in a programme that will allow for the young people within our community who do register for the course, to receive equal opportunity and support through their transition.