Positive start with impressive outcomes

Mon, Jun 15th 2009

77 young people have already been engaged with the Wilberforce Youth Development programme through CAT.ZERO. Out of the 38 that have completed to date over three quarters want to progress onto education, training or employment: five have already gone on to further training, with 16 having applied for courses; a further three young people have been accepted onto college courses; four young people have found work and two are awaiting the outcome of interviews. Of the remainder one is currently doing voluntary work and most of the others continue to receive support from CAT.ZERO

CAT.ZERO chair Jim Dick said: “These figures speak for themselves. It is early days and we cannot be complacent, but we are greatly encouraged by these early indications that this programme is having the desired impact on a group of young people that has traditionally proved difficult to engage and influence positively.”

Over 280 young people have applied for the programme which can accept around 150 per year.