YMCA South Midlands and Landsec, owner of Xscape Milton Keynes, have launched a new partnership to help more young people access employment opportunities and build brighter futures.
The partnership brings together both organisations’ commitment to helping young people develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to move towards meaningful, long-term employment.
To kick-start the partnership, 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 further 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 employment 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.
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: “We’re delighted to be working with Landsec and Xscape Milton Keynes to create more opportunities for young people in Milton Keynes. Together, we can connect young people with employers, experiences and support that can make a real difference to their futures.
“At YMCA South Midlands, we believe every young person brings valuable strengths, talents and ambitions. With the right support, these can be developed into meaningful careers and long-term success.
“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. We provide the encouragement that helps young people believe in themselves and take those important steps towards their future.”
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 will combine YMCA South Midlands’ experience of supporting young people with Landsec’s industry relationships and commitment to creating opportunities in the communities where it operates.
