Routes to Work programme helps NEETs secure employment

The challenge

Young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) can often face significant barriers when trying to enter the workplace. Without work experience or established networks, securing that first opportunity can be difficult.

To help address this challenge, First Bus launched Routes to Work, a pilot employability programme designed to give young people practical workplace experience, build confidence and create pathways into sustainable employment.

The solution

Delivered in partnership with local organisations including the Well Foundation, and Rochdale Council through Rochdale Youth Hub, Routes to Work provided workplace placements, employability support and employer engagement opportunities.

The programme gave participants hands-on experience at First Bus's Rochdale depot, alongside support with CV writing, job applications and interview preparation. Participants also visited a number of businesses within First Bus's local supply chain, helping them develop a broader understanding of the opportunities available in the world of work.

Kai, from Rochdale, was one of four young people selected to take part in the first cohort.

Before joining the programme, he had spent more than a year looking for work and submitted more than 100 job applications without success. Through Routes to Work, he was able to gain valuable workplace experience, develop new skills and grow his confidence in a professional environment.

The impact

Following the completion of his placement, a vacancy became available within First Bus's Engineering Stores team at Rochdale depot. Having demonstrated his potential during the programme, Kai successfully applied for the role and joined the business as a full-time Stores Person in August.

He now works at the same depot where he completed his placement, supporting operations that deliver Bee Network services on behalf of Transport for Greater Manchester.

Kai's appointment marks the second employment success from the first Routes to Work cohort, with half of the participants now securing full-time employment. Fellow participant Mason has also moved into employment with local business Royton Steelstock.

The success of the initiative has also been recognised nationally, with Routes to Work shortlisted for the Bus and the Community Award at the UK Bus Awards.

Kevin Mullin, Social Value Manager for First Bus in Greater Manchester

"Kai's story demonstrates the real difference that meaningful social value initiatives can make. There are young people across our communities who are eager to work and build a career but often struggle to get that important first opportunity.

"Our Routes to Work programme is about opening doors, building confidence and helping young people showcase their talents to employers. We're delighted to welcome Kai and look forward to supporting him as he develops his career with First Bus."

Gail Lavery, Youth Support and Partnership Manager at the Well Foundation

"At the Well Foundation, we see first-hand the life-changing impact that can happen when employers are willing to open their doors and give young people a genuine opportunity to succeed. Kai's success with First Bus is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when young people are given the opportunity to demonstrate what they can do."

"His journey shows that sometimes, all a young person needs is someone to believe in their potential and provide them with that first opportunity. We are proud to support young people on that journey and grateful to employers such as First Bus who recognise the value of investing in the next generation."

Charlie Stansfield, Work and Skills Advisor, Economic Affairs, Rochdale Borough Council

“Kai has been working with Rochdale Youth Hub on and off since March 2024 and despite securing temporary work on a few occasions, he struggled to find permanent work. We supported Kai with applications, interview practice and employability and despite all this he wasn’t getting a break. We could see Kai’s potential and he just needed an employer to take a chance on him. We referred Kai to First Bus’s Routes to Work programme as we saw the huge benefits; as did Kai.”

Looking ahead

Following the success of the pilot programme, First Bus plans to deliver future Routes to Work programmes, helping more young people gain workplace experience, build confidence and move into sustainable employment.