The Princes Trust Team Programme is a 12-week course facilitated by staff seconded from Police Scotland. This is undertaken by young people who have struggled to find a job, or have faced barriers to entering the world of work. We were delighted to be asked to help Team 6 build their confidence and skills so they are better placed to get a job in the sector of their choice.

The programme is broken down into weekly activities, and at the recent graduation event the families of the participants, along with the businesses and organisations who had helped out, were given an insight into everything the young people had been up to over the past few weeks. This has included team building activities, cooking (we were disappointed we missed the macaroni cheese cook-off!), and days out to go paddle boarding and using the high ropes course at Monikie Park.

One of the highlights was seeing the community project the team had undertaken at Royal Victoria Hospital, totally transforming two patio areas for the patients to enjoy. It was also great to see the group all dressed up for their day training with the Fire and Rescue Service, and the insight they had with the Police Scotland dog handlers.

Our contribution was to help out with a workshop about interview technique, followed by mock interviews. Hilary and Ailsa from the DYW team really enjoyed giving the young people hints and tips to help them in interviews, and then pretending to be from various businesses – everything from restaurant owners to IT consultants, so they could ask questions relative to what the young people want to do. They have also had input from SDS and the Bauer Academy to make sure their CVs really stand out. Alongside this, members of the team all undertook work experience which was extremely valuable to them, and have gained qualifications in Food Hygiene.

This programme has been invaluable to these young people who now feel more prepared to go out and find a job. Some who started the programme already have found employment, and others are going on to more training or voluntary work which will be an excellent addition to their CV.

We were delighted to be able to help out and we wish everyone in Team 6 all the best for the future.