A 10-week mentoring programme supporting Dover young people aged 16-18 are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET)
CXK’s Future Proof is a free 10-week mentoring programme designed to support young people 16-18 (academic years 12 and 13) from the Dover area who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET).
Funded by Dover District Council via the Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme helps young people who may feel unsure about their next steps, providing tailored support to overcome challenges and explore opportunities.
Participants engage in 2 days of contact time with a dedicated mentor each week and receive additional one-to-one support as needed. Delivered by trained mentors, the programme is designed to support young people who may face multiple challenges or significant barriers to education, employment, or training.
The focus is on building confidence, motivation, and practical skills, while also addressing these barriers to help participants move forward. Mentors play a crucial role in identifying individual needs and connecting participants with additional services if required, such as:
· Counselling or mental health support
· Housing advice or homelessness services
· Substance misuse support
· Safeguarding concerns
· Access to health services
1. Build confidence, motivation, and skills.
2. Explore career and education options.
3. Receive personalised guidance to overcome challenges.
The programme is delivered in three key stages, tailored to each young person’s needs:
Personal Engagement-Phase (up to 2 weeks)
The programme starts with an Engagement phase during which the young person is referred to CXK and liaison takes place between the referrer, CXK and the young person.
· Weekly one-to-one and small group sessions break the ice and build trust.
· This phase focuses on engagement, confidence, and identifying individual needs.
Team Engagement-Phase (4 weeks)
Having built trust with their mentor, the young people are formed into teams, attending group sessions in a local venue.
· High-energy, fun group workshops foster motivation and teamwork.
· Sessions with local community providers and activities are tailored to young people’s interests and needs.
Progression Support-Phase (4 weeks)
The final phase of the programme focuses on next steps and raising aspirations.
· Explore education, training, volunteering, and employment opportunities in the local area.
· Benefit from visits to local colleges, training providers, and employers.
· Get help setting goals and planning your next steps.
The programme begins in January 2025.
