Derby City Council’s Employment and Skills team recently hosted a celebration event which brought together over 60 young people, employers, training providers and council services to recognise the impact of inclusive employment across the city.

The event showcased how collaboration has enabled inclusive employment programmes to break down barriers and create real pathways into work for young people, including care leavers, those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and those not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Central to this success is the Journey to Work Programme launched in 2025, which provides tailored support, employability skills and work placements, helping participants gain skills and confidence to progress into meaningful and sustainable jobs and careers.

A highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, recognising the impact of collaboration and how partnership can truly change a young person’s life.

Leonardo Hotel Derby was presented with The Inclusive Employer of the Year Award for creating 17 meaningful employment opportunities, progressing young people from placements into real jobs, ensuring inclusion is core to their recruitment strategy for the city.

Balfour Beatty received the Social Value Provider of the Year Award for delivering hands-on industry experiences, live on-site work placements and taking every opportunity to support our young people to progress towards a career in construction.

The Provider of the Year Award was awarded to Engineered Learning Ltd for their flexible and creative approach to helping young people gain welding and construction skills, increase their confidence and access industry opportunities.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

We are incredibly proud of the impact our programmes are having across Derby. By working closely with local employers and partners, we are creating real opportunities for young people who may otherwise face barriers to work.

It’s inspiring to see so many individuals gaining the skills, confidence and experience they need to build successful futures, and we remain committed to ensuring that every young person in Derby has the chance to thrive.”

Sharon Buckby, Director of Learning Inclusion and Skills, said:

This event highlights the impact we can achieve when we work together to remove barriers and create opportunities. Our partners are transforming lives, and our young people continue to inspire us with their ambition and resilience.”

You can learn more about the Journey to Work Programme by watching an interview with Angel, one of the successful programme participants. Visit our website to learn how you can get involved either as a participant or as a local business.