David
Category: Youth Employability
David was referred to NIACRO’s Youth Employability programme from the Youth Justice Agency. He had been involved in the justice system for a few years, which led to him getting a Youth Conference Order for his offending behaviour.
David struggled with education and left school with few qualifications and very little work experience. He was keen to undertake training, but realising that he hadn’t coped well with mainstream education, he felt short-term, targeted training leading to work experience would be of most benefit to him.
His Youth Employability Project Worker placed him on a number of short courses. These included the HARTE programme, which provided him with a qualification in hotel work and other courses which offered him specialised retail qualifications. David also attended the Youth Employability Job Club where he produced a CV, completed application forms, practised interview techniques and put together a disclosure statement regarding his convictions for potential employers.
Through his involvement with Youth Employability, David built up his confidence and undertook a Prince’s Trust programme which offered work placement opportunities. David’s success in this area allowed NIACRO to place him on a 12-week programme with the Belfast Metropolitan College. Following these training opportunities, David undertook a number of temporary work contracts which further built his confidence, kept him occupied and moved him closer to full-time employment.
Even after he finished with Youth Employability, David kept in contact with NIACRO to seek advice and guidance on personal issues and potential job vacancies. Recently, using the skills he gained through training programmes, the disclosure advice provided by NIACRO and via a recruitment agency recommended by the Youth Employability team, David has received an offer of employment. Further, he no longer has any involvement with the criminal justice system.
Due to the his engagement with Youth Employability, David has become more self confident. He now feels he can make the right choices regarding suitable training programmes and employment opportunities. David has a bright future and has been a great success story for Youth Employability.