Urban Synergy CEO and Founder, Leila Thomas, discusses the barriers faced by some individuals in the workplace in a recent blog for National Apprenticeship Week.
Highlighting the benefits of apprenticeships, Thomas acknowledges the opportunity to earn while learning, but also brings attention to the challenges faced by those who may not have the same support system as others.
Thomas explains, “Imagine you’re an 18-year-old without parents who work in the City who’ve already got you some work experience or helped with your CV?” She also mentions the financial burden of traveling to apprenticeship interviews, which can be a major barrier for some individuals.
In response to these challenges, the government has introduced the Youth Guarantee, a long-term plan to overhaul and boost apprenticeships and offer work experience to all who need it. While Thomas applauds this proposal, she also emphasizes the need for additional support.
“For years, our charity has worked to empower underrepresented people, starting with 9-year-olds in primary school,” Thomas shares. Through mentorship, role models, and career opportunities, Urban Synergy aims to provide young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with the skills and support they need to succeed in the professional world.
Thomas also stresses the importance of early years support, noting the significant cost of creating a work-ready candidate straight out of school. “A mentoring program or work experience facilitated by Urban Synergy costs over £1,000 per young person,” she explains, accounting for training, safeguarding, and other expenses.
Without these resources, Thomas warns that the Youth Guarantee risks being a well-intentioned policy that fails to deliver meaningful change.
To truly bridge the gap and promote equity, Thomas believes that a long-term commitment and collaboration between government, businesses, schools, and charities like Urban Synergy is necessary.
“Policies should be accompanied by investment in the education needed to prepare young people,” Thomas suggests. This includes relatable role models, mentorship, skill-building workshops, and ongoing support networks.
In conclusion, Thomas urges for action rather than just promises. “If we’re serious about economic growth and transforming lives and communities by bringing young people into the workplace, we need to ensure every young person is not only given a seat at the table but is equipped to make the most of it,” she asserts.
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