"To see what little confidence and belief the participants had when they arrived and to see what they achieved over a very short amount of time shows how programmes like this will change the thought process of all involved. Young people who get into this 'rut' just seem to require the encouragement and belief of others to help them see the potential they have."

Jerry May, Community Rugby Coach

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An important part of Basingstoke Consortium's work is the activity it undertakes with young people who are pre-NEET (those who are currently at school with little motivation or focus) or NEET (those who have left school and not continued in any form of education, employment or training).

What Basingstoke Consortium is doing...

For these young people, the Consortium offers a range of bespoke and motivation raising programmes. These include: practical introductions to interview techniques, CV writing and presentation skills; 'work tasters' and work experience; sports based programmes and tailored mentoring.

In 2008 the Consortium helped to establish the Borough's NEET steering group, whose members include Hampshire County Council, The Prince's Trust, Barnardo's, Basingstoke Voluntary Services, local colleges and work based learning providers. Since setting up, this group has worked on initiatives including: drop-in skills development sessions, a Directions Fair and joint mailings.

This year, the Consortium has been commissioned by the Local Children's Partnership to complete a research study into NEET tracking: helping providers understand more about individual young people and support them in their transition back into education, employment or training.

For further details and information please call Sue Riley on (01256) 840710 or email sue.riley@bas-consort.org.uk.