Discussing opportunities for young people with Baroness Stedman-Scott

Warren recently welcomed an important visit focused on one of the key challenges facing communities across the UK – helping young people move into education, employment and training.

The visit brought together our Managing Director, Will Bridgman, and our Founder Owner Richard Bridgman with Baroness Debbie Stedman-Scott and Julia Nix, Head of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for Norfolk and Suffolk.

Julia organised the visit, bringing Baroness Stedman-Scott to Norfolk to meet with organisations including Warren, Netmatters and Open Road in Thetford. Each organisation plays a role in supporting, training and developing young people, including those who may have faced challenges during their education.

A major topic of discussion was the growing number of young people aged 16 to 24 who are not currently in education, employment or training, often referred to as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training). This remains a significant challenge across the country and one that requires collaboration between businesses, education providers and government organisations.

Richard commented that Baroness Stedman-Scott was a breath of fresh air, bringing a wealth of experience and practical ideas to the discussion. She was instrumental in introducing the highly successful Kickstart scheme and continues to champion innovative approaches to helping young people develop skills, gain confidence and access meaningful employment opportunities.

The visit generated valuable conversations and new ideas that could help address the challenges facing young people today. Several of these ideas have already been shared with others involved in training and workforce development.

At Warren, we remain committed to supporting apprenticeships, work experience placements and opportunities that help young people take their first steps into rewarding careers.

Watch this space as these discussions continue to develop.