Recent figures showing a rise in the number of young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) have prompted a great deal of discussion about the future facing young people across the country.
But behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a future we can help shape.
As we approach the summer months, YMCA Fairthorne Group is preparing for one of the busiest periods of the year. Across Early Years, Youth Services, and Community Programmes, we see both the potential that exists within our communities and the barriers that can stand in the way.
No two journeys are the same.
For some young people, the barriers may be confidence, mental health, or a limited access to opportunity. For others, housing insecurity or caring responsibilities can make finding work or continuing education more difficult.
On the Isle of Wight, our mother and baby service supports young women who are navigating the realities of early parenthood while trying to build a stable future for themselves and their children. Without the right support around them, the opportunities that help shape a more secure future can feel out of reach.
The world of work is evolving too. Advances in technology, including AI, is reshaping industries and creating new expectations of the workforce. Yet while technology continues to evolve, the foundations that help people build successful futures remain deeply human: confidence, communication, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to build relationships.
For many young people, particularly those who have experienced disruption or disadvantage, developing these skills is both a significant challenge and one of the most important investments we can make.
There are no simple solutions.
Helping shape better futures requires long-term thinking and strong partnerships. Employers, education providers, charities, local authorities, health services, and communities all have a role to play in helping young people build confidence, develop skills and access to opportunities.
At YMCA Fairthorne Group, we are proud to work in partnership with organisations who share our commitment. Together, we create pathways into employment, training, and independence, recognising that lasting change is often built through many smaller, consistent steps rather than one single intervention.
This is also why our people matter so much.
I was delighted that YMCA Fairthorne Group was recently recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work. That recognition reflects not just the organisation, but the dedication of the people behind it.
Every day, our colleagues and volunteers give their time, skills, and care to help others overcome barriers, and believe in their own potential.
Every contribution is valuable, because every conversation, every act of support and every opportunity created has the potential to help shape and brighten someone’s future.
The challenges facing children, young people and families today will not be solved overnight. They require sustained commitment, collaboration and a willingness and ability to adapt as needs change.
At YMCA Fairthorne Group, we know we cannot do everything. Our responsibility is to focus our resources, expertise, and services where they can make the most meaningful difference. Strengthening the areas where we can have the greatest impact while continuing to collaborate with partners who share our ambition.
That focus, combined with strong partnerships and the commitment of our people, gives me confidence that together we can continue to build stronger futures across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, ensuring every young person can realise their potential.
