The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer is an initiative supporting young people aged 18–21 across the West of England to access employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities. It can also support 16–17 year olds who have disengaged, or are at clear risk of disengaging, from mainstream services.

This programme forms part of the wider government Get Britain Working Strategy, and aims to ensure every young person has access to education, training, or support to move into employment.

Currently funded projects

This project has mapped the regional employment and skills landscape for young people and integrated it into the Skills Connect platform. A dedicated youth landing page and directory of training and support services have now been created to give young people clearer access to opportunities.

The Combined Authority has established the Get West of England Working Steering Group to oversee regional skills needs. Three local leadership hubs sit alongside this group, aligning with Youth Guarantee Trailblazer delivery across the region.

A new data driven system is being developed to better identify young people at risk of becoming NEET. By combining local and national datasets, the system will enable earlier, more targeted interventions where support is needed most.

Business engagement teams across the region are coordinating employer outreach to create more opportunities for young people. Support includes workshops, training, online resources and an employer bursary to help cover costs of offering placements.

Delivery partner: Bath & North East Somerset Council

This project supports rural young people facing transport barriers to access education, training and employment. Participants receive tailored coaching.

Delivery partner: South Gloucestershire Council

This programme supports young people with SEND or mental health needs to build confidence and move into work or training. It offers coaching, placements, emotional support.

Delivery partner: Bristol City Council

Aimed at young people in South Bristol facing significant barriers, this project provides 1 to 1 coaching, a four week pathway to work and a two week work taster.

Delivery partner: University of the West of England

UWE is leading research with regional FE and HE partners to understand barriers faced by disadvantaged young people in accessing and progressing through further and higher education. The project completes in March 2026.

Delivery partner: Bristol Music Trust (Bristol Beacon)

This short term pilot uses creative practice, real world work experience and employability support to help young people build confidence and progress into training or employment. Delivered as part of the All Together Now programme.