A groundbreaking project which helps to transform young people's lives in North Tyneside is up for a national award.
Working Roots was set up in 2013 to support hard-to-reach teenagers who are classed as NEET (not in education, employment, or training) and tackle antisocial behaviour across the borough.
Now in its fourth year - and with its largest ever group of trainees - the project has been shortlisted for a prestigious UK Housing Award 2017 for its innovative approach to tackling antisocial behaviour.
The programme is delivered by a unique public, private, and third sector partnership of North Tyneside Council Homes, Kier North Tyneside, and Justice Prince CIC.
It takes the form of a 12-month, full-time course which gives up to 25 trainees the opportunity to work on environmental projects, such as landscaping, refurbishing empty homes, and decorating community spaces, while learning new skills and growing in confidence along the way.
Norma Redfearn, Elected Mayor of North Tyneside, said: "This is a fantastic project with wide-ranging benefits for the environment, local people, community safety, and the prospects of our young trainees.
"Many of these young people have faced real adversity in their short lives, but Working Roots helps them to make a fresh start by raising their aspirations, supporting them on a personal level, and helping them to grow in confidence and maturity.
"This is a very effective partnership which is unlike anything in the north east, and the evidence suggests that the positive impact continues long after the completion of the one year course. I wish the programme every success at the awards."
77% of last year’s group of trainees have continued in training or found jobs, and the course had a 93% attendance rate.
Karen Clark, Chief Executive Officer, Justice Prince CIC, said: “Working Roots is totally unique; it’s a new bespoke programme developed in direct response to the needs of excluded young people. It has proved to be hugely successful in engaging and retaining young people and supporting their positive progression. It is transforming lives, making a positive difference to young people and the neighbourhoods in which they live.”
Mike Furze, Kier regional director added: “The Working Roots scheme is a fantastic example of companies working together to benefit the local community. We’re proud to be part of a project that’s improving long-term job prospects for disadvantaged young people and raising the standard of living for many residents in the borough.
“Our Working Roots trainees have proven themselves to be dedicated, resourceful and determined to make a real difference to their local communities and being shortlisted at the UK Housing Awards 2017 is a testament to their commitment and hard work. This is set to be our busiest year so far with 21 trainees, and we’re looking forward to the programme going from strength to strength.”
Income generated from the activities is reinvested to ensure the sustainability of the programme.
