Include Youth welcomed more than 30 social workers from across the Western Trust to its Stakeholder Day on Friday 14th November, marking a powerful celebration of progress, partnership and possibility for care-experienced young people.
Held during National Care Leavers Month, the event highlighted the achievements of young people across the region and explored how collaborative support can continue to remove barriers and create new opportunities.
Strengthening a Meaningful Partnership
Speaking at the event, John McComb, Include Youth Regional Director, and Nia Loughlin, Head of Service for 16 + Pathway Service in the Western Trust, emphasised the positive and growing impact of the partnership.
“Our work together continues to impact the lives of care experienced young people across the Western Trust area,” said John McComb. “By combining our resources, expertise and belief in young people, we are helping them build confidence, skills and brighter futures.”
Give and Take: Empowering Young People to Thrive
Include Youth’s Give and Take programme supports care-experienced young people aged 16–21 through tailored personal development, education, employability and mentoring support. Across the programme 84% progressed into education, employment or training. This year in the Western Trust area 48 young people engaged and were supported on the programme.
Staff shared inspiring examples of young people gaining confidence, overcoming challenges and setting new aspirations through wraparound support and crisis intervention when needed.
Employability Achievements Across the Western Trust
The Western Trust Employability Service, working closely with Include Youth, supported 116 young people with careers guidance, interviews, applications, work experience and training.
Key highlights include:
44 young people moved into employment, including 12 through the Jobstart programme, 7 young people progressed into employment within the Trust.
“Meeting Emma transformed my life. I learned to read, secured a job, earned my qualification and now have my first home. I can read bedtime stories to my son. I’m so grateful for everything the employability service has helped me achieve.”
A Shared Commitment to Brighter Futures
Include Youth is proud of the strong partnership with the Western Trust, which continues to grow each year. Together, the organisations are creating meaningful pathways for care-experienced young people helping them build confidence, independence and long-term career aspirations.
“Our strong partnership and shared vision are committed to amplifying the voices of young people, fostering inclusion, and advocating for their rights to achieve their fullest potential. Together, our organisations are more impressive, and I am delighted to continue our collaborative relationship.”
