In the city of Milton Keynes, nearly 400 Looked-after Children (LAC) are under the care of dedicated foster parents and the local council. These young individuals, with unique backgrounds and experiences, deserve every opportunity to thrive in adulthood. One crucial step towards empowering them is by creating work placements that not only provide valuable skills but also foster social mobility. In this campaign, Cllr. Shazna Muzammil, in collaboration with the council, aims to engage local businesses and the community in supporting Looked After Children in finding work placements, unlocking their potential and opening doors so our LACs can have the same opportunities as all other young people.
The Challenge
Looked After Children often face additional hurdles in their journey towards adulthood. Transitioning from care to independence can be daunting, and finding suitable employment is a crucial aspect of this process. Recognising this challenge, the campaign was launched in Milton Keynes to enlist the support of businesses in offering work placements to Looked After Children. However, there is still a long way to go to ensure that every Looked After Child has access to these opportunities.
The Goal
The campaign's goal is to create a network of businesses and community members committed to providing Looked After Children with work placements and the chance to unlock their potential. By investing in their skills and abilities, the campaign contributes to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive community, where everyone has an equal chance at success.
The Project in Action
I. Engaging Businesses
The campaign's goal is to create a network of opportunities for Looked After Children (LAC), providing them with valuable work experience and supporting their university applications. Local businesses, big or small, can join the initiative by offering work placements to LAC. The campaign is flexible, providing opportunities in various sectors that align with the interests and aspirations of LAC.
The initiative's aim is for LAC to learn from local business staff, gaining valuable insights into the daily operations of a professional environment. Participating in the program doesn't require any changes in the business's current workflow. The existing employers' liability insurance policy will cover work placements, provided the insurer is a member of the Association of British Insurers (ABI) or Lloyds. Businesses don't need to obtain additional insurance to accommodate work-experience students.
Participating businesses will receive support in completing a comprehensive risk assessment. The Milton Keynes City Council will undertake visits during the work experience period and ensure the sharing of appropriate information. These measures are in place to facilitate a successful placement experience for both the participating businesses and the young people involved.
By opening their doors to these young individuals, businesses contribute not only to their individual growth but also to the overall well-being of the community. This collaborative effort reflects a shared responsibility to ensure that every member of society, regardless of their background, has an equal chance at success.
II. Engaging the Community
The campaign invites community members to support the initiative by spreading awareness and offering their time and resources. With the help of a supportive network of individuals and businesses, the campaign can provide more opportunities for Looked After Children and create a brighter future for them and the city.
Benefits of Work Placements for Looked-After Children
Skill Development: Work placements provide LACs with the opportunity to develop practical skills that are essential in the workplace. This hands-on experience enhances their employability and equips them for future career endeavours.
Increased Confidence: Stepping into a professional environment can significantly boost the confidence of Looked After Children. Exposure to different work settings helps them build a sense of self-efficacy and belief in their abilities.
Networking Opportunities: Work placements also offer valuable networking opportunities. By connecting with professionals in various fields, Looked After Children can expand their support network and gain insights into different career paths.
Breaking Stereotypes: Engaging local businesses and the community in this initiative breaks down stereotypes and challenges preconceived notions about Looked-after Children. It showcases their potential and resilience, promoting a more inclusive community mindset.
Social Mobility and Beyond: Enabling looked-after children to secure work placements is a crucial step towards enhancing social mobility in Milton Keynes. By investing in the potential of these young individuals, we can contribute to the creation of a more equitable society where everyone has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. This, in turn, fosters economic growth and development across the city.
Conclusion
As the local businesses and community members join hands to offer opportunities for these young individuals, they are doing more than just opening doors for them; they are unlocking a brighter and more promising future for the entire city. By investing in the potential of Looked After Children, this campaign takes a significant step towards building a society where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive, and it sets the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future for all.
Join the campaign in unlocking opportunities for Looked After Children in Milton Keynes.
Get in touch with Shazna.Muzammil@milton-keynes.gov.uk
