Last week, SOFEA hosted the latest NEET to Next event.
The union brought together a diverse group of organisations united with a shared ambition: to ensure every young person in Milton Keynes has the opportunity to thrive.
Hosted Aiimi HQ in Milton Keynes, it created a space for honest conversation, collaboration, and practical action around one of the most important challenges facing the city: supporting young people who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET).
Four young people from Milton Keynes, who had previously experienced being NEET, opened the event by sharing their personal journeys.
Their experiences highlighted not only the barriers many young people face, but also the resilience, determination and potential that can emerge when the right support is available.
The event was organised by Noel McCarthy, Deputy CEO of SOFEA, and Paul Cheesbrough, SOFEA Site Director, and welcomed key speakers including Aiimi's Global HR Director, Rebecca Trowell, SOFEA co-founder Richard Kennell, and Milton Keynes City Council representative, Gayle Fothergill.
Simon Green, CEO of YMCA South Midlands, and Amy Langford, Group Director of Inclusion at MK College also contributed to the session.
"There was a genuine sense of shared purpose in the room and a clear commitment to working together to tackle the challenges faced by young people who are at risk of becoming disconnected from education and employment," a spokesperson said.
"What emerged from the day was a powerful reminder that Milton Keynes is uniquely positioned to make a difference. Educational providers, charities, local government, and corporate partners are increasingly aligning their efforts around a common goal: ensuring no young person is left behind."
