A government funded youth hub which opened recently in Torbay is providing young people aged 16 to 24 with the employment and skills support they need to overcome barriers and meet their work, training or education aspirations.

The initiative, which has been funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and is being delivered locally by Eat That Frog CIC, is aimed at reducing youth unemployment, improving skills, and creating sustainable pathways into work, volunteering, and further learning.

It provides support to eligible 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit in Torbay who want to progress towards work, training or education but who face barriers like low confidence, mental health challenges, or housing worries.

Participants will have access to a dedicated mentor who will help design a programme of flexible, personalised support that is tailored to achieving their individual goals.

They will then be able to access regular support sessions that help to build their confidence and skills over time. This could include 1-2-1 or group support, in-person or virtual appointments, and can cover a range of topics from work and careers to health and wellbeing, digital skills and independent living.

Participants will be able to access the hub in Torquay or Paignton, with support available from Monday to Friday.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said:

"Initiatives like this Youth Hub are an important part of ensuring that young people in Torbay have access to the opportunities and support they need to realise their potential and achieve their goals.

"The hub's mission is to help our young people overcome the barriers they may face, build their confidence and skills, and move closer to sustainable employment - and I'm delighted that it's now up and running."

Hannah Rendle from Eat That Frog CIC said:

“The Youth Hub is a fantastic example of what can happen when organisations work together to support young people. By bringing mentoring, skills development and wellbeing support into one place, we can help young people overcome challenges and move confidently towards employment or further learning.”

Young people must live in Torbay, be aged 16 to 24 and receive Universal Credit to access support through the hub. Anyone who is interested, should speak with their Work Coach before applying to check if they are eligible. There is more information on our website.