Maisy first engaged with the Youth Hub at the Opportunities Fair in January 2026, where she immediately demonstrated enthusiasm for developing her employability skills and exploring careers, particularly within childcare. Working closely with a Youth Hub Coordinator, Maisy developed an action plan and made the most of opportunities to connect with training providers, employers and support organisations. Regular check-ins helped maintain momentum, while support with CV writing, applications and interview preparation strengthened her employability skills. Maisy went on to secure both a volunteering opportunity with Millfields Inspired and a job offer with B&M. Her growing confidence and willingness to embrace new opportunities have placed her in a strong position for future success.

Lucy joined the Youth Hub wanting to build her confidence while exploring her long-term ambition of working within the health sector. Together, she and the team explored education pathways and opportunities through The King's Trust. Lucy chose to participate in a Get Started in Fashion Photography programme, which sparked her creativity and encouraged her to explore new possibilities. Inspired by the experience, Lucy progressed onto college courses in Creative Textiles and Film and Photography, further developing her skills and confidence. Throughout this journey, Lucy also successfully navigated a major transition into supported accommodation at the Foyer, demonstrating resilience and determination.

Claire came to the Youth Hub with a strong interest in business administration and relevant qualifications, but anxiety and low self-esteem were preventing her from performing confidently in interviews. Katie helped Claire identify her strengths, recognise her transferable skills from childcare and retail experience, and build confidence through supportive mock interviews. These sessions were designed to celebrate her achievements and prepare her for real-world interview situations. As Claire's confidence grew, so did her success. She went on to secure a role as a Ward Administrator at Derriford Hospital. Claire's journey highlights the impact that confidence-building and personalised support can have on employment outcomes.

Evan joined the Youth Hub feeling socially isolated and unsure of his short-term and long-term goals. Working with Katie, he took time to reflect on his interests and future ambitions. To help improve his confidence and social connections, Katie referred him to The King's Trust Get Into Boxing programme, where Evan made new friends and developed valuable personal skills. Alongside this, Katie provided support with job searching, applications, interview preparation and understanding workplace expectations. Through this support, Evan successfully secured trial shifts at Subway before being offered permanent employment. From feeling uncertain about his next steps, Evan is now thriving in work and building confidence for the future.

Lily joined the Youth Hub lacking confidence in social situations and unsure of her next steps. Working closely with Katie, she engaged positively with a range of support sessions, gradually building her confidence, independence and employability skills. Through ongoing guidance, Lily developed strong job applications and gained confidence in presenting herself to employers. Her hard work and determination paid off when she successfully secured an apprenticeship with Plumbstop. Lily's journey demonstrates how confidence-building and personalised support can help young people achieve positive and sustainable outcomes.

Charlotte was passionate about working with children but faced several barriers to employment, including poor mental health, limited access to technology and challenges creating effective job applications. Youth Hub Coordinator Helen provided consistent encouragement and practical support, helping Charlotte set achievable goals and maintain momentum. Support included access to a computer and internet, developing a tailored CV, completing applications and preparing for interviews. Over time, Charlotte's confidence continued to grow. With a stronger CV and improved interview skills, she successfully secured employment in a role aligned to her interests. Charlotte's journey shows how personalised support and perseverance can help overcome significant barriers.

Hana joined the Youth Hub with a clear ambition: to become a nurse. With English as a second language, she knew she needed additional qualifications to achieve her goal. Katie helped Hana explore local education options and supported her to enrol on Functional Skills English and maths courses at City College Plymouth. Alongside her studies, Hana attended Skills Launchpad Plymouth health and social care events to learn more about careers in the sector and the pathways available. Her hard work paid off when she successfully secured a role as a Healthcare Assistant at Derriford Hospital. Hana's determination and commitment have created a strong foundation for her long-term ambition of qualifying as a nurse.

Ciaran first visited the Youth Hub keen to find work and progress towards a Public Services apprenticeship. However, not having a maths GCSE was preventing him from accessing the education opportunities he wanted. Katie arranged introductions to On Course South West, enabling Ciaran to enrol on a Functional Skills maths course. Recognising that Ciaran's autism and anxiety meant confidence-building was a priority, Katie also referred him to The King's Trust Get Into Boxing programme. Through these opportunities, Ciaran developed resilience, teamwork, practical workplace skills and increased self-confidence. While education and employment remain future goals, he has already made significant progress and is now much better equipped to achieve his ambitions.

Katy came to the Youth Hub feeling uncertain about her next steps and lacking confidence in her interview skills. Determined to improve her prospects, she reached out for support. Working with Helen and colleagues from Plymouth City Council, Katy took part in a tailored mock interview designed to build her confidence, strengthen her interview technique and prepare her for future opportunities. Shortly afterwards, Katy successfully secured a Data Technician apprenticeship. Reflecting on the support she received, Katy said: "Just wanted to say thank you for the help and the interview prep you organised for me. I feel a lot more confident in doing interviews now, and I've been able to secure an apprenticeship!" Katy's success demonstrates how focused preparation and confidence-building can make a real difference.

Savannah was referred to the Youth Hub by her DWP Universal Credit Work Coach while awaiting an assessment for possible neurodivergence. At the time, she felt this was creating barriers to employment and impacting her confidence. Youth Hub Coordinator Katie worked closely with Savannah to explore strategies for managing her neurodivergence while helping her identify suitable next steps. Katie also supported her to attend NeuDICE's How to Find Work as a Neurodivergent Young Person workshop, where she took part in interactive sessions alongside peers with shared experiences. Through ongoing support and encouragement, Savannah grew in confidence and successfully secured a volunteering opportunity at a local community café. Her journey highlights the importance of personalised support, peer connection and building confidence at the right pace.

Ruby joined the Youth Hub with a clear passion for working with children and young people. Alongside pursuing a volunteering opportunity with Barnardo's, she was keen to explore employment opportunities that aligned with her interests and career goals. With support from the Youth Hub, Ruby attended a Plymouth City Council Passenger Assistant recruitment event at Skills Launchpad Plymouth, where she had the opportunity to meet employers directly and demonstrate her enthusiasm, skills and experience. Ruby made a strong impression and was invited to interview for the role. Following a successful interview, she secured the position and is looking forward to starting in September. Ruby's journey highlights the value of connecting young people directly with employers and helping them access opportunities that match their ambitions.

Tyler joined the Youth Hub seeking opportunities that matched his interests in branding, media and marketing, supported by a strong aptitude for IT and digital technology. Working with Katie, Tyler applied for a Digital Support Technician apprenticeship with Tamar Fresh. Throughout the recruitment process, he received tailored support with his application, interview preparation, confidence building and using the STAR technique to showcase his skills and experience. Tyler successfully progressed through a rigorous three-stage interview process, including practical assessments and meetings with the team. His commitment, professionalism and preparation led to him being offered the apprenticeship. Katie continued to support Tyler through the onboarding process, helping ensure a smooth transition into employment.

Adam has engaged consistently with Youth Hub support, while building his independence and employment prospects. After successfully securing a role as a cleaner within a primary school, Adam continued working with Katie to identify opportunities that could provide additional hours and greater financial stability. He attended the Plymouth City Council Passenger Assistant recruitment session, explored Civil Service opportunities for care leavers and received dedicated support with applications and personal statements. Adam also participated in The King's Trust Get Into Security programme to further develop his skills and understanding of different career options. Adam remains highly motivated and continues to take positive steps towards achieving his long-term employment goals.

Charlotte engaged with the Youth Hub after completing a BA (Hons) in Crafts but was finding it difficult to secure relevant employment. Living in Cornwall without access to a car created additional challenges, making travel and accessibility important considerations. Working with Katie, Charlotte explored alternative career pathways and identified an interest in administration. Katie supported her to enrol on the On Course South West Level 2 Principles of Business Administration course to strengthen her skills and broaden her employment opportunities. Charlotte has made excellent use of the support available, attending a range of Youth Hub activities including the Plymouth City Council Passenger Assistant recruitment event, AI and job-search workshops, and interview preparation sessions. Her proactive attitude and continued engagement demonstrate her commitment to progressing into sustainable employment.

Binyam first engaged with the Youth Hub after taking part in The King's Trust Photography programme. Working alongside Katie, he explored both his immediate priorities and longer-term career ambitions. While studying ESOL and Functional Skills maths, Binyam received support to apply for employment opportunities, including delivery roles, helping him gain valuable workplace experience and increase his independence. Together, he and Katie also developed an education progression plan aligned to his ambition of pursuing a career in engineering. Binyam continues to make positive progress, balancing education, employment aspirations and long-term career planning.

Leah has been working with the Youth Hub to build her confidence and always had a long-term goal of working the health and social care. Recognising that Leah had some barriers to break down, Rhi at the Youth Hub with support from Leah’s Job Centre Work Coach, set to work applying Leah’s energy to programmes that will boost her soft skills and prepare her for the world of work. Leah was set up with a mentor through the YMCA and was enrolled in the Your Futures programme with On Course South West. Through these programmes, Leah’s confidence, communication skills and employability soared and gave her a new assurance of her ability to enter work. After completing a 1:1 interview prep session with Rhi, Leah felt ready and went on the nail the interview! She secured a role as a health care assistant at Derriford Hospital.

Sam first came to the Youth Hub with a lack of confidence and facing barriers due to poor mental health. He wasn’t feeling like he was ready for work but wanted to take steps to improve his employability and so working with partners, the King’s Trust and On Course South West, Sam enrolled on the Your Futures programme and the Get into Film and Photography. Combining the confidence he gained from Your Future and the practical learning from the King’s Trust programme, Sam has discovered a real passion for photography and is looking to pursue this as a career going forward. His confidence and mental health as come on leaps and bounds, and we know it’s only up from here!

Cory was brought into the Youth Hub by his Youth Offending Team Worker for some career guidance and support with his CV as he was keen to get into paid employment but coming up against some barriers. After an initial meeting with our Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, together they worked on creating an effective CV for roles within construction and considered different options for upskilling for a future career in the industry. It was agreed that the best next step would be for Cory to meet with Construction Coordinator, Gareth and Building Plymouth member, JEM Scaffolding.   Cory made a great impression during this meeting, and with his new CV and clear sense of direction, was able to secure a position on the spot! We can’t wait to see how Cory gets on in his new role with JEM Scaffolding.

Chanel felt ready to start exploring her next steps towards employment.   Chanel attended our two-day pre-employability session, where she completed a CV, an interview workshop and attended a Q&A session with the Area Manager of Barclays. She was keen to start applying for job roles following the session and to get involved with some training programmes to upskill her soft skills, so after an introduction to the King’s Trust at the Youth Hub, she signed up for the Get into Music Production and DJing course in collaboration with The Depo. Chanel shone so brightly on the programme, that the club has offered her a DJ slot on a club night in the new year.   Chanel said: “You guys are a really nice team and very polite. I feel like when I’m with you guys that I am a young responsible adult, and I also feel like you all have a deep understanding about jobs and interviews. They are all a positive and helpful team that not only can provide a good CV, but I feel like they can provide almost like a friendship.”

Jack came in touch with the Youth Hub during our pop-up support sessions at YMCA Plymouth’s on-site provision Discovery College. He was unsure of his next steps after his college course and lacking confidence in his ability to make the right choices. Whilst Jack expressed a love of sport, he didn’t know what his options were. Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhi, ran through Jack’s post-college options and together they discussed the personal ‘pros and cons’ of each. As well as this, they covered CVs and gaining work experience through volunteering. Now, after the successful completion of his college course Jack has decided that university is the right route for his next steps and secured a place at Marjon University studying Football Development and Coaching! Rhi will continue to check in with Jack to ensure he remains happy in university and keep him up to date with local opportunities.

Lily came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth through the Armed Forces community. She was shy and unsure of what to do next due to her mental health being a barrier to completing GCSEs. She chatted to Rhi about dreams and aspirations and opened up about what she felt was holding her back. Working together, Rhi and Lily came up with some ideas. Rhi accompanied Lily to one of Poole Farm’s SEET sessions so she could learn more about their offer and support. Lily came out of her shell and loved the session and is keen to take the programme on long-term. With ongoing support, Rhi has no doubt that Lily will wow us all in the future!

Serena was a recent Illustration graduate from Arts University Plymouth but was lacking confidence and direction for her next steps. During a one-to-one meeting with Rhianne, they discussed applying for Universal Credit to top up her part-time income; On Course South West’s free Graphic Art course; the Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme for her to consider self-employment and access to grant funding; groups and workshops with The Plot; and work experience and mentoring with Theatre Royal Plymouth. Rhianne also provided a CV review and supported Serena to apply for a part-time role at the Theatre for a foot in the door. Serena said:“I just wanted to send you this to say a big thank you!!"I got a job at the theatre as a hospitality assistant yesterday and I honestly don't think I could've done it without you and Jo. "The CV tips you gave me were perfect and so easy to understand and got me in the room, but mostly I wanted to thank you for the confidence boost you gave me. I'd been quite down before I came to our meeting, but you gave me hope and such a confidence boost and I was able to go into this interview knowing I could do it because of the advice you gave me and kindness you showed me."

Alice became a member of Skills Launchpad when she and her mum popped in for some upskilling advice. After discussing some training choices, we also identified that Alice would benefit from attending our SEND Employability Sessions.Alice attended every session, so her CV was reviewed, interview skills were polished and confidence was boosted. The time with Alice helped our Youth Hub Coordinator identify what made Alice motivated and this was caring for children. On the final session, Alice met with City College Plymouth to discuss course options. Alice is now working toward her goal of becoming a healthcare assistant for children. Her first step is indeed - college! We are pleased that Alice has been supported into a childcare course.Alice has come along leaps and bounds and we can’t wait to see where she goes next.

Leah, a recent graduate, came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth for advice and support after completing her degree. With a qualification in computer science, she was keen to apply for job roles that would suit her skill set, and utilise her education. Leah met with Rhianne, our Youth Hub Co-ordinator, and other members of the team on a few occasions to seek guidance on cv format, job applications and interview techniques. It was clear that Leah had the drive and determination to succeed, and was ready for a challenge!After spending time with Rhianne, Leah was confident enough to make several online job applications, and attend interviews. Following on from her support with Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Leah has found a fantastic opportunity and new path as a Junior Software Developer with The Range! Here is what Leah shared; " I just wanted to say thank you so much for all your help with my applications, you have all been very helpful and if I need some help applying for another job at any point in the future, I’ll definitely come and see you again. "

Harry became a Youth Hub member during his Supported Internship work placement with Skills Launchpad Plymouth.Over the past four months, he gained experience working with local people in the role of Administration Assistant. Here's what Harry said about his experience:"During my placement I have been working alongside the Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, to provide face-to-face customer service support from the first floor of Barclays in the city centre, and it’s helped me to gain many skills that I hope will transfer well into my next placement and future job roles."Some of the tasks and responsibilities I had included:making follow up phone calls and texts to memberstaking part in online training courses networking and connecting with people from different organisations including Groundwork South, Prince’s Trust and Care Journeyshelping to voice the views of young people for the Youth Hub evaluationhelping to develop content and ideas for focus groups via a SWOT analysiscreating spreadsheets and data inputtingreviewing digital content for accessibilitypreparing marketing materials for events including team outreach packsattending online meetings on Microsoft Teamstaking part in a group careers information sessiondeveloping my CV and cover lettersshadowing team members to gain a better understanding of their roles."Overall, my time working at Skills Launchpad Plymouth has been an incredible experience and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I have met many amazing people who have been extremely helpful and supportive. I would highly recommend doing a Supported Internship as the last few months have been great for me."

Jake, 21 , signed up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth when he completed his six-month Kickstart placement in the care sector. Jake had really enjoyed his placement and was seeking new opportunities. Jake said: “When I signed up to the Youth Hub as I was looking for an opportunity to help me learn more about myself as a person, to hone my skills and also have viable proof of my skills and what I could do in the hope it would help me find a job."I had an initial chat with the Youth Hub Coordinator over the phone, where we spoke about my past experiences and interests. During our conversation she helped me to identify skills that weren’t obvious to me at all, thus teaching me how to put these skills into words when applying for opportunities. She also presented me with various opportunities and we moved forward with a referral to the Real Ideas Organisation for their Green Thinkers programme, which I thoroughly enjoyed. This programme gave me the chance to expand my awareness of various careers and I’m now looking for a new programme to continue broadening my future options."I found the Skills Launchpad Plymouth team to be very friendly and equipped with the right resources to provide help too. I’m still nervous about my next steps, but I am willing to push past that and try new things. I still don/t know exactly what I want to do in terms of a career, but I feel that with supportive organisations like Skills Launchpad Plymouth and the Real Ideas Organisation wrapped around me and willing to help, I will figure it out."

Rebekah (21) a Plymouth Community Homes tenant, came to see Skills Launchpad Plymouth after a recommendation from her temporary employer.Keen to discuss ideas which could support her future work options, Rebekah arranged to speak with Community Lead Coordinator James.James and Rebekah spoke at length around the development of English and Maths skills which would enhance employability opportunities. They also talked about a wide range of free courses available through On Course South West, particularly Business Admin Level 2 Certificate, which would help both in her current, and future roles. In addition, Rebekah was looking for support to improve her CV.Following ongoing support from James, and some really positive action on Rebekah’s part, she was able to find new employment and is really happy in her new role. Here’s what Rebekah had to say: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth have really helped with directing me for support in drafting a suitable CV and personal statements for job applications. James Blake has been particularly helpful, keeping in touch with me around my work related queries and always asking if there is any more help I would benefit from.”When asked how she feels about her next steps Rebekah said, “I feel pretty confident that whatever comes my way next, in terms of employment opportunities, I will feel more prepared for any future job prospects. I know Skills Launchpad Plymouth will always be there to guide me if I need it.” When asked to describe the support she received through Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Rebekah said, “All round - perfect!”

Abbey, 22, was first told about Skills Launchpad Plymouth when she was working with a Pathfinder Keyworker to defer a charge. She first engaged with the service when attending a Find Your Future session with a support worker. These sessions offer a weekly drop-in opportunity for care experienced young people to join a Barnardos representative and a member of the Skills Launchpad Plymouth team for a chat and some tea, coffee and cake, whilst also finding out about opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs. The skills assessment identified that Abbey was interested in business admin and retail roles and that she needed to tweak her CV for the different positions. It was also agreed, that the first priority, was Abbey joining a Devon Mind anxiety workshop online to check she had the tools to move forward into employment. Abbey did attend and this activity provided her with the boost she needed to move forward with applying for jobs, taking on board all of the advice provided. Jo supported Abbey in updating her CV, and gave her confidence in her existing transferable skills, encouraging her to move forward with her goal of gaining employment. Abbey soon got a job working evening shifts at Tesco, and is now planning ahead for her next opportunity when her contract is reviewed later this month.Abbey said: “Even though I’m now working, I still receive regular updates on various opportunities from the Youth Hub, including Apprenticeship Bulletins with Plymouth vacancies. Jo checks in every couple of months to see how things are going. I’ve found Skills Launchpad Plymouth to be friendly, encouraging and caring, I would be happy to recommend them and know I can get in touch for advice when I need it.”

Like so many recent graduates, one of our Youth Hub members, Mia, 21, found herself unable to find work this summer due to the ongoing pandemic. She signed up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth and after an initial conversation with our Youth Hub Coordinator Jo, was supported with help from the National Careers Service to get herself back on the right path. Mia said: "The support I received through Skills Launchpad Plymouth was really positive. I've had help to get my maths qualification training lined up which will increase my future prospects, brushed up my CV, gained confidence in my interview skills, and I’ve also now started a Kickstart placement with the Civil Service.”“I’m feeling good about my next steps now, which is a real relief. Not securing a job after my degree really knocked my confidence, but I now feel like I am on the right path.” “To describe the Youth Hub in three words, I’d say it’s encouraging, supportive and informative.”

Joseph, 20, was unemployed and looking for opportunities after gaining experience in various hospitality and supermarket roles, but not finding anything that he wanted to do long-term. He was told about Skills Launchpad Plymouth by his Personal Advisor, Debbie, who said it could help him to move forward with jobs and training.Initially attending a Find Your Future session at Barclays, with support from his PA and Barnardos, Joseph completed an initial skills assessment with the Youth Hub Coordinator. After much discussion, it became clear that Joseph really wanted to support other young people and that getting into youth work was his main goal. Following their chat, Jo (Youth Hub Coordinator) referred Joseph to Plymouth Training to see if they could arrange a placement for a Traineeship. This led to Joseph taking up a placement with Livewire in Saltash, which is absolutely loving.Joseph said: “I’m really pleased that I came along to the Thursday session in Barclays to see Jo, because straight away I was moving forward towards my goal. I didn’t think it could be so quick. “To begin with I was a bit hesitant about the Traineeship, as the placement I was most interested in was based in Saltash, but Plymouth Training helped me out with the travel costs and the team at Livewire are just amazing!! I’m loving my placement, gaining lots of experience and skills. I feel that I’m now on the best path into youth and community work, which is really exciting.”

Dylan, 16, was referred to Skills Launchpad Plymouth by a friend in the summer when he wasn’t sure what to do after receiving his results. Three-months on, Dylan is settled into his Level 3 BTEC in Engineering and Core Maths at sixth form, and aspires to start an Advanced or Higher Apprenticeship, with Babcock when he finishes. Dylan said: “Thanks to Skills Launchpad Plymouth, I’m clear on where I want to be. The helpful resources such as the Plymouth Makes and National Careers Service websites, have been so useful. “Working with Jo, I now know what opportunities are out there, and she even encouraged me to get a part-time job alongside my studies. I would definitely recommend the Youth Hub to anyone. I’m feeling really good about my future.”

Sam came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth looking for a fresh start. He was employed on an unreliable zero-hour contract and had caring responsibilities for his partner. Seeking guidance on how to transition into a full-time career, Sam was also looking for support with his CV and interview preparation. Sam is a gifted individual with significant potential, but what he needed was someone to support and guide him through the process. With Rhianne’s help, his confidence soared. Together, they worked on strengthening his CV, enhancing his interview skills, and preparing for opportunities in his chosen field. Rhianne went above and beyond, even reaching out to employees at the company Sam had applied to in order to gain a better understanding of what the company was looking for. This proactive approach allowed them to tailor Sam’s preparation and approach to the interview, ensuring he was well-prepared for success. Reflecting on the support, Sam said, “Rhianne has been fantastic in supporting my journey to get a better job. She went above and beyond by talking to employees of the company I applied for to gain a better understanding of what the company was looking for. We discussed interview skills and the company I applied for to give me the best opportunity to succeed. Her well-rounded approach helped me boost my confidence with the interview.”Thanks to Rhianne's guidance, Sam has made a great impression on a local employer and has been invited for an interview, giving him a significant step toward a more stable and fulfilling career. We are excited to see Sam’s continued growth and success in the future.

Kylara came to our Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, with a desire to re-enter the workforce, specifically in the education sector, but felt uncertain about how to move forward. As Kylara is a care leaver, the wrap-around support of the Youth Hub played a pivotal role in helping her to regain her confidence and clarity about her career path. Through personalised guidance and encouragement, Rhianne offered a range of tailored activities and resources that helped Kylara explore her options and build the skills needed to re-enter training. One of the first steps in Kylara's journey was her participation in the Youth Hub volunteering days with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and at the National Marine Aquarium. These experiences gave her hands-on exposure to roles that were both educational and aligned with her interests. Through these volunteer opportunities, Kylara gained practical insights into the sector, while also improving her confidence and communication skills. In addition to these experiences, Kylara enrolled on the Green Skills Bootcamp with On Course South West. This programme not only deepened her understanding of sustainable practices but also allowed her to develop new, transferable skills that would be valuable in both educational settings and broader professional environments. Feeling empowered by these opportunities and the continuous support from the Youth Hub Coordinator, Kylara took the bold step of applying for a GCSE Science course. This decision marks a significant shift in her career trajectory, as she is now actively pursuing qualifications that will enable her to work in education. Through skills-building, confidence-boosting activities, and career guidance, Kylara now feels prepared to take these important steps toward her future in education and training. Kylara is really grateful to Rhianne for supporting her to take these next steps.