Help us accelerate urgent action on youth unemployment
Norfolk communities are responding to a national youth unemployment crisis, but they need out help.
Young people across Norfolk are facing growing barriers to employment. Recent figures show youth unemployment in the UK has risen to around 16 per cent, with more than 739,000 young people aged 16 to 24 out of work. National leaders are warning of a “lost generation” of young people not learning or earning. Communities are feeling this pressure now, and local groups are ready with practical solutions that can help.
Guided by insight
We understand local needs and the communities responding to it. Our Spark Report showed the pressures young people are facing, alongside the practical, community‑led solutions already helping them move closer to work.
With partners committed to our Skills for Norfolk mission, we have secured £110,000 to build on this momentum. Their support reflects our shared belief in taking local action, and the value of investing in communities that know their young people best.
A response led by communities
With this backing, Norfolk Community Foundation opened the Building Skills for Better Futures fund in direct response to the youth unemployment challenge. The programme supports grassroots organisations helping young people gain confidence, learn skills and take routes into employment.
When we launched the fund, we invited groups to come forward with ideas shaped by local insight. They responded with ambition and a clear understanding of what their young people need.
Communities have solutions ready now
Demand for support has been significant. The fund is three times oversubscribed. We know community groups have proven, practical solutions ready to deliver.
Communities are ready to roll out a wide range of practical support shaped by what young people say they need:
- Clubs to build confidence and soft skills.
- Employability workshops covering CV writing and interview preparation
- Hands‑on vocational training, from cooking to creative arts and landscaping.
- Creating volunteer placements that build routine and experience,
- Mentorship programmes that give young people trusted guidance.
- Helping young people gain qualifications or accreditation to strengthen their prospects.
These groups are rooted in their neighbourhoods. They are trusted by young people who may be furthest from the workplace. They know what works, and they are ready to act at pace.
Without extra support, many of these ideas will not be able to go ahead.
An urgent appeal – help us act now
We are launching a rapid-response appeal to bridge this immediate funding gap. Every pound invested stays in Norfolk and backs organisations already making a difference.
Through your donation, we can:
- Enable community organisations to act quickly at a moment of real need.
- Support more young people to develop skills, confidence and pathways to work.
- Empower local leaders to deliver creative and practical solutions for a generation at risk of being left behind.
We have set ourselves the ambitious goal of raising £100,000, doubling the number of projects we can support.
It is real investment in real action, rooted in communities.
A unique opportunity to build shared learning
We will also bring together organisations working with young people furthest from employment. This will help share learning, build insight and strengthen long-term support across the county. With additional backing, we will gain more insights and make a greater impact on youth unemployment.
Together, we can strengthen Norfolk’s future
This is a chance to stand alongside communities who are ready to lead the way. Your support will help more young people move towards work, wellbeing and independence.
If you would like to discuss how you can help meet this urgent need, we would be pleased to talk.
