Barclays free skills scheme for youngsters smoothes road into work

Fabrice Muamba, left, Matthew Hancock MP, centre, Kirstie Mackey, far right, with trainees [JAMES BAKER] The LifeSkills initiative, set up by Barclays Bank, aims to reach one million

11-to-19 year-olds by next year through the scheme which offers curriculum-linked resources for teachers, online content for young people and a match-making service linking them up with

local businesses for work experience.   Firms wanting to take part can access help about providing placements, trainee positions and apprenticeships.   For former football ace Fabrice Muamba

the scheme’s focus has a special personal relevance. He is now studying journalism after his career on the pitch was cut short two years ago following a cardiac arrest during a game. He

joined Skills and Enterprise minister Matthew Hancock MP recently to highlight LifeSkills’ progress and new branding for London’s Barclays Cycle Hire which will also promote the programme.

“Since I’ve had to retire, I’ve had to learn a completely new set of skills,” says Muamba. “I appreciate how tough it can be when looking to enter the world of work. I hope this Barclays

cycle rebrand will help more people find out about LifeSkills and get involved.”   An independent survey by research body The Work Foundation found an increased sense of hope and optimism

among young people who have taken part. Ninety per cent said LifeSkills had helped them handle new situations and people more confidently. Teachers have so far booked over 700 of the

scheme’s workshops, and 5,142 schools and institutions have signed up.   Kirstie Mackey, Barclays LifeSkills head, added: “Helping the next generation get into gear for the future is vitally

important to every business and our society as a whole.” www.barclayslifeskills.com