Bridging the Gap: We Must Work Together to Empower Vulnerable Young People
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It’s imperative that we invest in our youth, particularly those who are vulnerable and in need of guidance. As a society, we bear the responsibility of nurturing the next generation, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive. Unfortunately, there remains a significant gap in support for young people, particularly those who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). At Genuine Futures CIC, we strive to address these challenges head-on with our “Boss Your Future” programme, but the journey has not been without its hurdles.
The Challenge of Engagement
Genuine Futures CIC, is a community interest company with a mission to support young people. Our “Boss Your Future” program is specifically designed to engage youth aged 16-18 in Salford who are NEET. However, one of the primary challenges we’ve faced is recruiting young people to participate in our initiative. In Salford, many young individuals have expressed a sense of being “passed around” by various programs, only to be let down by unmet promises. This has resulted in a general skepticism towards new initiatives, making it difficult for us to gain their trust and engage them meaningfully. The feeling of being let down is pervasive, and it has created a barrier that requires persistent effort to overcome.
Competition or Collaboration?
Another significant hurdle has been the reluctance of other organisations to engage with us. It’s a sad reality that some organisations perceive our efforts as competition rather than an opportunity for collaboration. This competitive mindset can be detrimental, as it prevents the pooling of resources and ideas that are crucial for truly supporting young people.
Mike Alleyne director at Genuine Futures CIC emphasises, “It’s essential for organisations and businesses to collaborate rather than compete. By working together, we can provide a comprehensive support network for young people and create pathways to success that are currently lacking. “The reluctance of other organisations to collaborate often stems from a fear of losing funding or recognition. However, this perspective neglects the ultimate goal: the well-being of young people. By sharing resources, knowledge, and expertise, organisations can significantly amplify their impact and provide a more cohesive support system.
Building Trust with Young People
At Genuine Futures, we are dedicated to gaining the trust of young people by delivering on our promises and showing them that they are valued and heard. We understand that rebuilding trust takes time and consistent effort. Therefore, we prioritize creating a safe and inclusive environment where young people feel comfortable sharing their experiences and aspirations. We have implemented feedback loops that allow participants to voice their concerns and suggestions, ensuring they are active stakeholders in their development journey. This participatory approach not only empowers young individuals but also helps us tailor our programmes to better meet their needs.
The Power of Collaboration
The key to overcoming these challenges lies in collaboration. Genuine Futures CIC is actively seeking partnerships with organisations and businesses that share our vision. We believe that by working together, we can create a more robust support network that addresses the multifaceted needs of young people. Collaboration enables us to offer a wider range of opportunities, from vocational training to mentorship programmes. It also allows us to reach more young people who might otherwise slip through the cracks. By uniting our efforts, we can create a more resilient and supportive community for the youth of Salford.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
Supporting vulnerable children and young people is not just the responsibility of individual organisations but of the entire community. We must collectively strive to break down barriers and foster an environment where young individuals can flourish. This requires a shift in perspective—from seeing each other as competitors to viewing ourselves as allies in a shared mission.
To all organisations, businesses, and community members, we extend an invitation to join us in this endeavor. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of young people, offering them the opportunities and support they need to build a brighter future. As Mike Alleyne wisely states, “When we work together, we can turn possibilities into realities for young people. Collaboration is the key to unlocking their potential and ensuring no one is left behind.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the challenges faced by organisations like Genuine Futures CIC in supporting vulnerable youth are significant but not insurmountable. By fostering collaboration and building trust, we can create a more supportive and inclusive community for young people in Salford and beyond. The time to act is now, and together, we can bridge the gap and empower our youth to take charge of their future. Let us all commit to doing better and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to succeed.