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Connected Futures

Introduction

Connected Futures is an East Midlands County Combined Authority programme funded by the Youth Futures Foundation. We’re working with all four local authorities (Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council) along with the Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), to remove barriers and create better job opportunities for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Our vision is “nothing about us, without us” – genuine co-leadership, not tokenistic consultation. By working together, we can create an environment so more young people with learning disabilities and/or autism move into and thrive in employment.

What we aim to do

  • Embed youth voice in decision-making
  • Improve transitions from school to work
  • Support employers to be more inclusive
  • Scale proven models like Transition Coaches, Supported Employment, and Accessible Apprenticeships
  • Develop an Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit for SMEs

 

Why it matters

Employment rates for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism are far below average. Connected Futures aims to change that by reshaping systems and raising expectations, so every young person has the chance to thrive in work.

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Phase 1 – Achievements

In Phase 1, we conducted research with young people, parents/carers, educators, employers and local authorities, which helped us lay the foundations for systems change:

  • Youth Voice in Action:
    • Recruited Connected Futures Ambassadors – young people with lived experience who co-design services and influence decisions
    • Introduced Youth-Led Commissioning, giving Connected Futures Ambassadors a budget to select specialist organisations for projects like role model campaigns
    • Secured governance participation, with youth representatives on the EMCCA Youth Committee
    • Delivered media and advocacy campaigns, led by young people, to promote inclusive employment and showcase success stories
  • Partnership Building
    • Strong collaboration across all four local authorities and partners like DEBP

Phase 2 – What’s Next?

  • Strengthening transition pathways from education to employment.
  • Recruiting new Connected Futures Ambassadors – young people who will co-design services and influence decisions. Watch this space for how to apply!
  • Scaling proven models and creating inclusive recruitment practices.

Get Involved

For further information, please contact laura.wilkins@eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk

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