NORTH East businesses still have time to get involved in one of the region’s biggest schemes, aimed at improving the employability of young people in Sunderland.
Regional firms are being invited to participate in this year’s Work Discovery Week which will be held from 26-30 June, offering career advice and experiences to more than 1000 youngsters from schools across Sunderland.
Now in its fifth year, Work Discovery Week is part of the successful Work Discovery Sunderland programme which helps students develop skills and gain insight into various industries before choosing their career path.
A number of high profile companies from across the region have already signed up to this year’s event, which will give young people the chance to enjoy a selection of activities.
But there is still time for other organisations to get on board, as sponsors or to provide activities for the young people taking part.
The event is supported by SAFC, NEEC and Sunderland City Council, along with being sponsored by a range of leading businesses.
These include Sunderland College, the University of Sunderland and MAKE It Sunderland, as well as Nissan, Accenture, Liebherr, Gentoo, the Bridges, North East LEP and Northern Print Solutions.
The launch day on 26 June includes a careers fair featuring trade stands, workshops, challenges and hands-on activities held at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, followed by two weeks of visits and activities.
Paul McEldon, co-chair of Work Discovery Sunderland, is encouraging other businesses to get on board.
“With just a short time to go until this year’s Work Discovery Week opens its doors to the city’s young people, we are still encouraging any business not yet signed up to participate, to do so,” he said.
“Leaving school and making decisions about your future can be a very daunting experience, and we believe it is important that the city’s youngsters are given as much help and guidance as possible.
“Work Discovery Week plays a vital role in providing a genuine insight into the world of work, and we couldn’t do this without the support of the region’s leading firms. We already have the backing of some of the North East’s biggest businesses, but if any others are interested in getting involved, we would love to hear from them.”
Any businesses looking to get involved should contact Stephanie Rose stephanie.rose@sunderland.gov.uk for more information.
