Six residents from YMCA Exeter got a taste of working life by taking part in a joint pilot programme with the city’s council that aims to introduce young homeless people to employment.
The participants who have all experienced homelessness, were given a tour of eight different departments at Exeter City Council, including Environmental Health, Tourism, Economy and Open Spaces. Following this, the young people were invited to complete a feedback form specifying which department they would like to gain work experience in.
Jane Spain, Co-ordinator of YMCA Exeter’s Employment Support, said: “We are extremely grateful to all the staff at Exeter City Council who made our tour of their departments so interesting and informative.
“The residents who attended were fully engaged throughout the day and were hugely impacted by the professionalism, efficiency and quality of services the council provide.
“All six residents are keen to follow up on the offer of work experience and undertake placements in the days and weeks to come.”
Jonathan, a YMCA resident, said: “I had a great day seeing what the council do. It has made me realise how much they really do to help the city. I respect them 100% and I’m looking forward to starting my work experience.”
Jade Earle, HR Partner at Exeter City Council, said: “Exeter City Council are committed to helping the local community and have initiated a pilot scheme, working with YMCA and Job Centre Plus, introducing nominated members of the local homeless community to work experience opportunities within the council.
“We hope by giving this opportunity we can provide valuable learning and experience, which could improve chances of the nominated members gaining employment.”