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Navigating the transition into adulthood can be challenging, especially for young people who find themselves at a crossroads. For those aged 16 to 21 in Nottingham who are not currently in education, employment, or training (NEET), a powerful new opportunity has arrived to help them find their footing, build momentum, and discover their direction.

ELEVATE is a free, structured 4-week personal development programme explicitly designed to support young adults who may be facing difficult circumstances.

At its core, ELEVATE bridges the gap between uncertainty and opportunity. The programme focuses on driving real, tangible change by helping young adults:

• Build Core Strengths: Cultivate lasting confidence, personal resilience, and emotional wellbeing.
• Master Communication: Develop healthy relationship habits, robust communication tools, and effective conflict resolution skills.
• Gain Independence: Acquire practical life skills and map out a clearer career trajectory.
• Expand Networks: Connect with positive peer groups and inspirational local role models.

Crucially, the support doesn’t end when the 4-week course wraps up. To ensure long-term success and keep the momentum going, every participant receives 3 months of ongoing mentoring, expert careers advice, and employment support after completion.

The 4-Week Journey: What to Expect

The programme is broken down into weekly, thematic focuses that naturally build upon one another:

Week 1: Identity & Strengths

Participants begin by exploring their personal strengths, identity, and aspirations while building essential trust within the group. Sessions place a strong emphasis on mental wellbeing, positive role models, cultural awareness, and establishing healthy personal boundaries.

Week 2: Relationships & Choices

This week shifts focus toward developing healthy relationships, communication, and conflict resolution. Participants also explore community risks, gain exploitation awareness, and learn practical strategies for making safer, more positive life choices.

Week 3: Resilience & Teamwork

Through active, practical sessions, young people develop robust coping strategies and emotional wellbeing tools. Group activities focus heavily on teamwork, showing participants how to apply positive behaviours to real-life situations.

Week 4: Life Skills & Future Horizons

The final week delivers practical life skills alongside creative problem-solving and collaborative group projects. The focus shifts entirely toward the future – unlocking upcoming opportunities in employment, education, and positive community engagement.

Who is ELEVATE For? (Eligibility Criteria)

To ensure the programme reaches those who need it most, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age & Location: Aged 16 to 21 and living within Nottingham City (eligibility is based on the young person’s home address, not their former school).
• Current Status: Not currently in education, employment, or training.
• Mindset: Ready to focus on their personal goals and take positive next steps.
• Circumstance: Have been affected by crime or anti-social behaviour or simply want support to avoid situations that could hold them back in life.

If you work with young people in Nottingham – whether you are a school leaver coordinator, a youth worker, or part of a community organisation – ELEVATE is a perfect fit for individuals who are still figuring out their next steps.

The programme is fully funded and delivered via a trusted network of local experts.

If you know a young person who meets the criteria and would benefit from a confidence-boosting, future-focused kickoff, get in touch with the ELEVATE team. Local schools and youth organisations are also highly encouraged to reach out to discuss partnership opportunities.

• Contact: James Guest, Community Engagement Coordinator
• Phone: 07494 001455
• Email: James.guest@nottinghamforest.co.uk