Marvin OnumonuStaffordshire County Council has launched a programme to encourage local businesses to employ care leavers and increase workforce diversity.
The ‘Supporting Care Leavers into Employment’ scheme aims to match businesses with young people who have the right skills.
More than 1,000 young people aged 16 to 25 in Staffordshire have left care, including foster homes and supported housing.
Research found care leavers are less likely to be in education, employment or training.
The scheme uses the Staffordshire jobs and careers service, which was set up last year to provide a free employment matching service for businesses and jobseekers.
The council’s social care team works with the service to match care leavers to suitable jobs or apprenticeships.
Businesses can attend a breakfast event on 14th May at the Moat House, Acton Trussell, to find out more.
By joining the programme, businesses can get a quality mark showing their commitment to social value and corporate parenting.
Awards are available at gold, silver and bronze levels depending on support.
A match-funded bursary has also been set up by Staffordshire Community Foundation to help care leavers with training, business costs, clothing and travel.
Anthony Hodge, assistant director for business and enterprise at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Care leavers in Staffordshire can offer businesses a wealth of talent, ambition and enthusiasm and our new Care Leavers into Employment scheme will match suitable candidates to a business’s needs when looking to recruit.
“As a county council, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a corporate parent and extending this to businesses and other employers.
“These young people should have the same opportunities and aspirations as other young people.”
Hodge added: “Businesses taking on care leavers as part of their workforce not only boost diversity and skills but also demonstrate a commitment to local social value.”
