Your future

We know that moving into your own home and being independent is scary and exciting all at the same time. Don’t worry… there are lots of different people who will be there to help and support you along the way, and they will do this in lots of different ways. This could be working on budgeting, supporting you to appointments, accessing services and much more.

There are lots of ways that we will support you financially and you can ask your PA for our money matters guides for more information. Money matters outlines all of the financial support that you can access which includes things like:

• Your setting up home allowance
• Money for interview clothes
• Money for books and stationary if you are studying
• A laptop

There may be times where you are struggling to pay bills or you find yourself short of food or other essential things. There are services that your PA will support you to access.

Don't forget that you can come to the CORE every Monday from 12 noon where you can have a shower, wash and dry your clothes and have a hot meal.

You can also talk with the PAs who will be able to offer advice and support with your worries and celebrate with you when you tell us how well things are going for you. 

We have worked with the local hygiene bank to make sure that we have a stock of toiletries including, sanitary products that you can access should you need them.

Please ask your PA if this is something that you need help with or pop into the CORE where we can give you what you need. 

Need help with food, bills etc and your PA has not been able to help? Please ask for support from the discretionary support service. Most importantly – talk to us, we are here to help!

We commenced a transport pilot on the 1 March 2024 to support care experienced young people in Blackpool with the core aim being to provide free bus travel in order to enhance your access to opportunities, help you make connections with friends and family, help you to save money, support you to be independent, and demonstrate ongoing support for your well-being.

There is some criteria and your PA will be able to tell you if you are eligible.

There are a range of ways that we can support you financially and your PA will provide you with the Money Matters that outlines the support that the local authority will provide you.

There may be times when you are struggling to pay some bills or you find yourself short of food or money for gas and electric. We want to support you if you are having some difficulties.

Your PA will support you to make sure that you are able to access discretionary support or support you in other ways (which in some circumstances will be financially).

We know that learning to drive is expensive and we want to support you.  We will provide you with one provisional driving licence, one theory test, one practical test and the cost of 5 (1 hour) driving lessons.

This offer is available to young people who are engaged with education, training and employment and have been on the course for over 3 months. You must have no driving convictions. This support also applies to learning to ride a moped or motorbike.  

You will need ID for lots of things.  

This includes:

• Opening a bank account
• Starting a new job
• Accessing services

We will therefore support you to make sure that you have a suitable form of ID. This will be in addition to a passport, which will also make sure you have. 

There is a lot of support on offer for to help you achieve your dreams, whatever they may be.  We have worked with a range of organisations who can offer your lots of opportunities and support.  

Your PA will support you to figure out what is the best route for you and will work alongside you to help you to achieve in whatever your chosen path is.  

An apprenticeship is like a golden ticket to getting a head start in the job world. It’s a real job, but with a special twist: while you work, you also get to learn and train for a specific career. You earn money while getting skilled up for your future.

How it works

Earn while you learn: You’ll get paid a salary, just like any other job. The difference is, part of your time (20%) is spent learning and training for a qualification related to your job. It’s a win-win; you get work experience and learn at the same time.

• Levels for everyone: Apprenticeships come in different levels, from beginner stuff (called Intermediate, Level 2) all the way up to higher levels (like degree apprenticeships). Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got your sights set on university-level learning, there’s something for you
• A real job: From day one, you’re treated like a proper employee. You’ll have a contract, work with experienced colleagues, and get to grips with the ins and outs of your chosen industry
• Support all the way: You won’t be thrown in at the deep end. You’ll have mentors and tutors to guide you through your training and work. Plus, if you have an education health and care plan (EHCP), there’s additional support to make sure your apprenticeship is as smooth as possible.

Who can do it

If you’re 16 or over and not in full-time education, you can start an apprenticeship. It doesn’t matter if you’re just leaving school or if you’re looking for a career change – if you’re eager to learn and ready to work, an apprenticeship could be perfect for you.

Why consider It

Real work experience: There’s no substitute for learning on the job. You’ll pick up skills that you just can’t get in a classroom.

• A stepping stone: Many apprentices stay with their employers after finishing their apprenticeship, climbing the career ladder faster than they might have otherwise
• No debt: Unlike going to university, you won’t be left with a big pile of student debt. You’re earning money while getting qualified

Getting started

Start by thinking about what you’re into – is it tech? construction? business? There are apprenticeships in almost every field you can imagine. Then, check out apprenticeship listings online, talk to career advisors, or reach out to companies you’re interested in. It’s your first step towards a great career!

Remember, an apprenticeship isn’t just a job; it’s the beginning of your career path, offering you the tools, experience, and qualifications to succeed in the industry you love. So, why not give it a shot?

If you are planning to go to college then we have made sure that there is some financial support available to help with buying the things that you need, like books and stationery.  Your PA will help you to apply for the 16 to 19 bursary. 

If you are awarded this then it will provide you with some money whilst you are in college.  Speak to your PA or check our money matters for more information.  

If you want to go to university we want to help you to get there. Our support includes:

• Paying towards university accommodation, fees and living costs
• Visits to campuses before you apply
• Support with writing your personal statement, should you want this
• Taking you to your halls of residence and helping you to settle in
• Keeping in touch with you to see how you are getting on and celebrate your achievements
• You will be entitled to a graduation grant on successful completion of your degree

There are also bursaries and student finance who could help with grants and loans. For more information see student finance for undergraduates.

This group is working with colleagues across the council to provide you with opportunities to work with the council in an area that suits you, when you are ready for work. 

To support you in applying for these jobs we have ensured that you have a Greater Jobs account and profile so that you can look for and apply for jobs with the council, for example, as a life guard or with the participation team (where there are vacancies).

Ask your PA if you want help with application forms and writing supporting statements. The council is also committed to making sure that you are guaranteed an interview for any apprenticeships that they have where you meet the criteria in the job description. 

There is lots of support available to you to help you into training or work. We have The Platform which is a service for 16 to 24-year-olds to help them find a job, access training or education.

To find out more speak to your PA or use the contact details below:

• Text or call on 07342 056448
• Call our office on 01253 477775
• Pop into The Platform, Unit 3 Bickerstaffe House (next to the new Post Office) to make an appointment
• Email:  youthhub@blackpool.gov.uk

Helpful information about jobs and career opportunities in your area as well as information about local education and training provision

You have a dedicated worker from the Job Centre who works specifically with care experienced young people. 

They are based at The Platform and can help you with accessing benefits, should you need them and works with Linda, the employment advisor to make sure that you are supported to look for training or employment should you need this. 

We have become a signatory to the Care Leavers Covenant which adds so much more to our offer. 

Download the covenant app to you phone or sign up online Connects sign-up - Care Leaver Covenant. They also have lots of offers for care experienced young people, for example, the AA driving app is free. 

Find out more about what is on offer to young people with SEND via the link below

Blackpool local offer

Can you spare some time to make a difference?

Blackpool Volunteer Services are always welcoming new volunteers to their  team. You don't have to have any previous experience, and you can volunteer as much or as little time as you can.

Find out more or speak to your personal adviser.