NEET Engagement & Reduction Project

You are invited to bid to deliver on the NEET Engagement & Reduction Project which is funded via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The Council is looking to receive applications to join a multi-supplier framework to carry out the required services. A maximum of two suppliers will be selected.Telford & Wrekin Council has received confirmation of further funding for a 12-month period from April 2025.

The Council is committed to supporting all our young people to have a great transition into learning and work and are looking for targeted support for our most ‘at risk’ or vulnerable young people.

In many cases we can identify those young people who are at risk of becoming NEET before they leave education and work to address the barriers. Unfortunately, some young people leave school, education or training and become NEET. The claimant count in the borough for those aged 16-24 equates to 990 young people. We are seeking 2 providers to engage and support these young people, working with them to overcome barriers, and to progress them into education, training or employment.

Evidence has shown that early engagement impacts positively on their future and prevents them from becoming long term unemployed. We want to retain our young people and talent, so they have successful careers in the Borough

Data shows that as a Borough we have a lower than national average number of people achieving Level 2 qualifications. Further, businesses tell us that young people are not demonstrating the soft skills required for work and in some cases have unrealistic expectations of employment.

We believe:

• Every young person should have the opportunity to learn and fulfil their potential.
• Young people should be supported into adulthood through pathways that offer skills and personal development.
• Young people should feel valued in the economy, have a sense of belonging and be recognised for the contribution they make.
• Ensure our young people have a sense of citizenship and want to play an active role in their local communities and the economy.
• We are determined that every young person will succeed in Telford & Wrekin, and our role is to ensure it is one of the best places in the country for young people to grow, learn, develop and achieve.

The two providers will support young people identified as NEET (aged 16-24), working with them to overcome barriers and increasing their chances of progression. Each provider will be awarded a call off contract and be required to deliver across Telford & Wrekin.

It is intended that once a call off contract has been awarded, full delivery will commence within 14 days.

Entering into a Framework Agreement with a Provider shall not be deemed to imply that any Call-Off Contracts will be issued to that Provider. Admittance onto the Framework is no guarantee of any award of Call-Off Contract or services, or future ordering of any volume or value of services.