North East Lincolnshire Council has announced a new employment programme designed to help young people leaving care gain skills and secure work.
The Family Enterprise scheme aims to address the challenges faced by care leavers in entering the workforce, including low employment rates and limited access to training. Around 41% of care leavers aged 19 to 21 across the UK are not in education, employment, or training, with local figures even higher.
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder for Children and Education, said the initiative marks a crucial investment in the region’s young people. “This programme is a vital step forward in helping care leavers access meaningful employment opportunities. By working closely with local businesses and partners, we are creating pathways that support young people into work, training or further education.”
Developed with input from care-experienced young people, the programme follows a successful pilot run earlier this year. Participants will take part in an 8 to 12-week course delivered by Grimsby-based training provider CPO, covering accredited learning, skills assessments, and wellbeing support. The initiative also connects participants with local employers offering placements, voluntary roles, or apprenticeships.
Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council, said the scheme reflects a community-wide effort to back young people transitioning from care. “Our care leavers have so much potential, and this programme is about giving them the chance to thrive. It has been shaped with their voices at the heart, and I hope our community will come together to support them. When young people feel seen, heard and supported, the outcomes can be life changing.”
The scheme builds on an existing network of over 150 Foster Friendly businesses across North East Lincolnshire. The council is encouraging more local employers to engage with the initiative, which will launch its first full cohort in January 2026.
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
