Amey has launched its inaugural STRIVE programme this week (14–18 July) in Manchester. The initiative is specifically designed to provide essential resources and opportunities for young adults transitioning out of the care system.
Care leavers in England often face significant challenges as they move into adulthood, with statistics showing they are ten times more likely than their peers to be out of employment, education, or training by the age of 21. Many also lack the vital support networks that other young adults might have, making their journey to independence considerably more difficult.
To help bridge this gap, Amey has partnered with the Greater Manchester Youth Network (GMYN) to deliver STRIVE. This comprehensive programme offers personalised mentoring, pre-employability training, and valuable real-world work experience.
Six young people have been selected to participate in this initial programme, with representatives from GMYN providing continuous support throughout the week. The sessions, lasting four to five hours daily, are being held across various Amey locations in Greater Manchester. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the transport infrastructure sector through this hands-on experience, which promises vital insights and opportunities that may extend beyond the engagement week itself.
Adam Webster, Social Value Manager and Project Lead at Amey, said: “Having spent over a decade in the charity sector, I have seen first-hand the powerful impact businesses can have through genuine social value commitments. At Amey, we are serious about making a difference, and STRIVE is a key step toward our ambition of being a leader in social value. STRIVE stands out for its focus on pre-employability engagement and personalised support. By partnering with a local charity, we ensure care leavers receive tailored guidance to build trust and gain confidence. Our aim is to help individuals take meaningful steps toward employment or further training. By helping care leavers understand how their skills and interests align with real job roles, we’re empowering them to build successful, independent futures.”
Myrtle Finley, Work Readiness & Education Programme Manager at GMYN, said: “We have really welcomed the opportunity to partner with Amey. Through this project our young people will get invaluable real-life taster experiences of work in a way that helps them to get a foot in the door of meaningful work opportunities. We are excited to see where this partnership leads moving forward.”
