Network of youth hubs officially launches

A network of youth hubs has officially opened in Cornwall as a pilot scheme.

The three centres in St Austell, Liskeard and Pool are designed to help 16 to 24-year olds access employment, training, and personalised guidance.

Cornwall Council said there was potential for more hubs to be created if the pilot was a success.

They opened at the end of February before being officially launched last week - in the first month 44 young people who are NEET (not in education, employment or training) enrolled to access careers and pre-employment support, the council said.

The facilities bring together Jobcentre Plus staff, council services, local training providers, employers, and youth specialists, ensuring that young people receive integrated support in one place.

Jane Cornelius, YEP (youth engagement project) and skills hub manager at Cornwall Council, said: "These new youth hubs will ensure young people can get the right help at the right time, in a space that is welcoming and built around their needs.

"This collaboration enables us to tackle the challenges young people face—whether that's employment, training, wellbeing or removing barriers to work."

The youth hubs offer career advice and employability support, along with access to training, apprenticeships and further education.

They also offer one-to-one mentoring, mental health support and financial guidance.

Councillor Hilary Frank, cabinet member for children, schools and families at Cornwall Council, said: "By bringing advice, mentoring and practical help together in one place, we can give young people the support they need to move forward into education, training or work.

"I'm keen to see how this approach can grow and support more young people across Cornwall."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.