A Six-week initiative
Summer Jobs Programme 2026
In 2024, The Summer Jobs Programme successfully completed its feasibility year, supporting over 800 young people across Greater Manchester, West Midlands, and London. In 2026, the programme will operate as a randomised control trial to assess its impact on youth violence. A total of 1,800 young people will be recruited, with 900 assigned to a control group and 900 participating in the programme as part of the experimental group.
How Does it Work?
The Summer Jobs Programme is a six-week paid work experience initiative where young people aged 16-20 receive pre-employment training, career mentorship, and real workplace experience.
Step 1: Apply & Get Registered (February – May)
– You (or someone you know) can refer you between 17th March – 17th May.
– A local delivery partner will contact you to check if you meet the eligibility criteria.
– You will complete a short survey and receive a £10 voucher for participation.
Step 2: Selection & Preparation (June)
– Your right to work will be checked.
– You will be randomly placed into one of two groups:
✅ Group 1: Will receive a paid summer job placement.
❌ Group 2: Will not receive a job placement but will still be part of the programme and receive vouchers for participation.
– You will meet with a youth worker for a one-on-one session to discuss your goals.
– You will complete 25 hours of pre-employment training to prepare for work.
Step 3: Start Your Summer Job (July-August)
– Group 1: Works 5 weeks in a paid job (5 hours a day, 5 days a week).
– Group 2: Continues career development activities.
– All participants receive 3 check-ins with a youth worker for support.
Step 4: Complete the Programme & Get Your Final Voucher (September)
– All participants complete a final survey about their experience.
– You will receive a £15 voucher as a thank-you.
– The programme ends with a celebration event for all participants.
Who can Apply?
To qualify, you must:
✔ Be 16-20 years old (as of 1st September 2025)
✔ Living in (Location) or (Location)
✔ Have the right to work in the UK
✔ Be available for at least 5 of the 6 weeks
✔ Not be in full-time employment (15+ hours per week) or studying for a degree
✔ Proficiency in spoken English
You must also meet at least one of the following:
✔ Have experience with Youth Offending Teams or social services
✔ Have been excluded from school or persistently absent
✔ Have been a victim of violence or at risk of exploitation
✔ Have lived in care or had contact with the criminal justice system
Programme Timeline
Young people are recruited and screened for eligibility
Consent is captured, and participants complete a short survey
Right-to-work checks & randomised placement selection
1:1 youth worker sessions to discuss career goals
Pre-employment training (25 hours of workshops)
5 weeks of paid work experience (5 hours/day, 5 days/week)
Ongoing support and check-ins from a youth worker
Final check-ins and celebration
Post-programme survey with a £15 voucher reward
