Press release, June 2020: Collaborative Future launches flexible and remote work placement scheme
Today, Collaborative Future, a social enterprise which is reimagining the world of work, has launched a new, innovative 6-month programme convening a community of small businesses, freelancers and young people to work and learn together. A core part of the programme aims to provide 18-24 year olds not in full-time education or employment with flexible and paid work experience alongside a variety of businesses. Additionally, this program will run entirely remotely making it easy for people across the UK to take part.
Tess Cooper, Founder of Collaborative Future said “The flexibility of the placements is not just about making the scheme more accessible to young adults, we’ve also designed it with small businesses in mind. It is difficult for small business owners to access more traditional internship or apprenticeship programmes, particularly when they require a full-time commitment. Our scheme allows businesses to gain access to interns as and when they have suitable projects. And when our interns aren’t working with your business they’ll be gaining more experience and skills through working with other complimentary businesses who are part of the scheme. ”
The 15 interns and 30+ businesses involved will also benefit from additional support in the form of extensive training and coaching opportunities. This will not only enable all individuals to build deeper connections between those participating, but also develop the vital skills needed when working in or managing teams.
Rosie, Founder of Organised Fun and participant from the pilot said “As a small business that has been operating for less than a year we aren’t currently in a position to employ anyone, but we have ambitions to grow. Besides being a good way to support young talent, the Collaborative Future placement programme was a chance for us to get a feel for employing someone.”
With a wide range of packages available for businesses, the Collaborative Future programme caters for growing businesses which are starting to think about how to employ new talent in a sustainable way, as well as businesses that simply want to expand their network and support the next generation to develop the skills, connections and mindset that will help them navigate their career.
“I used to think starting a business you need this amazing idea, that you need all these investors and an office, but most people I met just started something on their own and they seem really happy. I got an opportunity to network and work with people who can help me get to where I want to be” Adele, 21, aspiring business owner and pilot participant.
Businesses and young people can find out more and register for the program on collaborativefuture.co.uk, or follow @collab_future on twitter or instagram.
#futureofwork #collaboration #youthemployment #smallbiz
Intern and business owner involved in the pilot program working together