'Brighter futures plan' approved in Devon
A major new action plan has been launched to help young people move confidently into education, work or training
A major new action plan has been launched in Devon to help young people move confidently into education, work or training.
‘Brighter Futures’ will give extra support to those aged 16 to 25, especially young people with special educational needs, disabilities, or who have been in care.
Council leaders are promising practical help for young people at a crucial stage in their lives.
The new ‘Brighter Futures’ plan means more personalised mentoring, extra internships and work placements, and better access to transport and digital resources.
There is also a big push to support care-experienced young people, giving them one-to-one help as they leave care, and the authority says the plan was shaped by young people themselves, and aims to make Devon the best place to grow up.
The new action plan supports the council’s strategic ambition to build a positive future for Devon where everyone thrives, and where young people and adults are supported to access skills, learning and opportunities to progress.
The key features of the plan include:
- Personalised mentoring and support for vulnerable young people, helping them build confidence and find the right opportunities
- More supported internships and work placements, especially for care leavers and those with additional needs
- Better access to transport and digital resources, so rural isolation doesn’t hold anyone back
- A new Job Quality Charter, encouraging local employers to offer meaningful, secure jobs with room to grow
- Local Youth Offers, tailored to the needs of each community, so support is available close to home
The plan has been shaped by young people, with their experiences and ideas having helped design the strategy.
Devon County Councillors will be asked to consider the plan at its Cabinet meeting on 8 October.
Cllr Julian Brazil, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, said: “We want every young person in Devon to feel supported, valued and hopeful about their future. This plan is about practical help, and providing real opportunities that make a difference.”
Keri Denton, Director of Performance and Partnerships, added: “Brighter Futures is about working together - families, schools, employers, and communities - to give young people the tools they need to succeed.”
The Action Plan will be delivered through existing local and national programmes, with regular updates to ensure progress is being made.