The partnership will offer a new place-based approach, connecting young individuals with opportunities closer to home. This initiative includes financial and future-skills education, work experience, early careers support, and entrepreneurship guidance, aiming to create clearer pathways from education into employment or business ventures.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, described the pilot as a "fantastic opportunity" for the region's youth, enabling them to access the necessary support and skills to fulfil their potential. She emphasised that creating better opportunities for young people is a key focus of her role as Mayor.
The new NatWest Youth Offer, which includes a pilot programme in Greater Manchester, is set to launch in January. Following this, a further pilot is being developed with the EMCCA as part of the Generation East Midlands (GenEM) initiative. GenEM aims to foster employer engagement, providing young people with meaningful encounters, work experience, and industry insights.
NatWest Group plans to leverage its position to help young people build connections with employers and entrepreneurs within their communities. The pilot will feature structured work experience and T-level placements, clearer routes into NatWest's apprenticeships, internships, and graduate roles, and tailored support for aspiring entrepreneurs through NatWest's Accelerator network.
Paul Thwaite, NatWest Group chief executive officer, stated that opportunities should not be limited by location, and the bank intends to use its national presence and business relationships to facilitate access to opportunities closer to home. This initiative complements the Government's Youth Guarantee, backed by a £2.5 billion investment.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden welcomed the initiative, highlighting its role in providing confidence and connections for young people to start their careers and for budding entrepreneurs. The Government's Youth Guarantee aims to create nearly one million opportunities.
The NatWest Youth Offer will also establish a new Young Founders Community for individuals aged 18 to 25 interested in entrepreneurship. This community, building on NatWest's existing Accelerator network, will offer connections with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and specialist support, available both in person and digitally.
