
Liverpool Youth Trailblazer
Supporting young people aged 18-21 who are NEET into Training, Apprenticeships or Employment

The Big Trust, in partnership with Liverpool City Council's Youth Trailblazer programme, delivers Next Step Employment - created to help young people who are not currently in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) to take their next step towards a brighter future.
Whether you're looking for a job, apprenticeship, training opportunity, or support to build confidence and skills, we're here to help.
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What is Liverpool Youth Trailblazer?
Across the UK, over 1 million young people aged 16-24 are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET), representing 13.5% of all young people. This has risen in the last few years, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and opportunities.
Liverpool City Region is one of only a small number of areas selected to deliver the Governetment's Youth Trailblazer Programme, supporting around 2,000 young people aged 18-21 access more programmes to support employment, apprenticeships and training.
At The Big Trust, we proudly deliver Phase Two of this programme in partnership with Liverpool City Council and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, helping young people build confidence, gain skills and move into sustainable employment.

How we support you
We provide personalised, practical support to help you move closer to employment. Our person-centred approach means we work with you to understand your goals, strengths, and any barriers you may face.
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One to one job mentorship
Receive tailored guidance and support from our team to help you build confidence, develop skills, and achieve your employment goals.
Support to overcome barriers
We help tackle challenges that may impact your journey into work, offering practical advice, confidence building, and connections to additional support.
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CVs, Job search & Interview preparation.
Get support creating a strong CV, finding opportunities, completing applications, and preparing for interviews with confidence.
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Practical support
Where eligible, we can provide additional help such as travel passes, interview clothing vouchers, and other support to help remove barriers to employment.

What can we do for your business?
Partnering with us means more than filling vacancies - it's an opportunity to invest in local people and strengthen the Liverpool community.
What we can offer your business
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Employer incentive funding of up to £6,000 (subject to eligibility)
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Access to motivated, work ready local candidates
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Ongoing support for both employer and employee
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Help to create measurable social value and support ESG/CSR goals.
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The chance to give back to the local community and support people into sustainable employment.
Liverpool is built on community spirit. By working together, local businesses and support organisations can create opportunities, reduce barriers to employment and build a stronger, more inclusive Liverpool City Region for everyone.

Creating opportunities and support Liverpool City Region
Liverpool City Region has been selected as one of the eight national Youth Guarantee Trailblazer areas, with almost £5 million invested to develop new approaches that help young people into employment and training. The programme responds to local challenges, including youth unemployment, economic inactivity, and barriers that prevent young people from reaching their potential.
The impact for Liverpool City Region
The programme will help:
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Reduce youth unemployment and economic inactivity
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Support local businesses with a skilled and motivated workforce.
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Improve confidence, wellbeing and future aspirations
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Increase access to employment opportunities for young people from all backgrounds
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Strengthen communities by helping more young people achieve their potential.
By working in partnership with Liverpool City Council, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, employers and local organisations, The Big Trust will help create a more inclusive economy where young people can thrive.
Your Journey
Register
Meet your mentor & create your personalised plan
Build skills
Move into employment, training or apprenticeships
Frequently asked questions
Who can join the Youth Trailblazer programme?
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If you're 18-21, live in the Liverpool City Region, and you're currently not in education, employment or training (NEET), then there's a good chance you can join.
How long does support last?
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There isn't a fixed timeframe because everyone's journey is different. Your mentor will work with you to create a personalised plan, and you'll continue to receive support for as long as you need to achieve your goals.
Can employers get involved?
Yes. We welcome employers who want to make a positive impact. You can support the programme by:
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Offering work experience placements
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Providing apprenticeships or job opportunities
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Delivering workplace visits or careers talks
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Mentoring young people
Is the programme free?
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Yes. All support provided through the Liverpool Youth Trailblazer programme is completely free for eligible participants.
I'm a parent/guardian, can I refer someone?
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Yes. Parents, carers, youth workers, schools, colleges, community organisations and other professionals are encouraged to refer eligible young people who may benefit from the programme. Our team will work directly with the young personal to understand their aspirations and identify the most appropriate support.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. Your personal information is handled securely and in line with UK data protection. Information will only be shared with partner organisations where necessary to provide support, and only in accordance with our privacy policy and your consent where required.
All our staff are DBS checked.
Do i need qualifications?
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No. You do not need previous qualifications or work experience to take part. The programme is designed to support young people at all stages of their journey.
What support will i receive?
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A dedicated mentor
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Careers advice & guidance
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Help finding jobs & apprenticeships
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Digital skills development
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Confidence workshops
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Financial, housing and budgeting advice
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Help overcome barriers to employment
Can I join if i've been unemployed for a long time?
Absolutely! If you've been unemployed for a few months or several years, we are here to support you without judgement.