The Activity Agreement team in Wakefield recently had a new edition to their team in the form of Police Constable Dominic Pay.

As part of his on going training as a Police Constable, Dominic chose to join the Activity Agreement team for his community service work placement.

The Activity Agreement offers 16 and 17 year olds, who have been out of work, education or training for some time, the opportunity to engage in positive activities with the aim of developing their skills. The project pays for the activities and provides support from a Keyworker for the duration of the programme. The young person receives £30 a week for each week that they attend.

Dominic was really impressed with the range of activities which the Activity Agreement offered. “It’s great how the programme is personalised to meet the needs of the young person.”

Dominic goes on to say, “I had the opportunity to meet the young people and heard, first hand, about the issues that effect their lives. I was surprised to discover just how many young people had fallen through the net. It’s great that the Activity Agreement is here to help.”

The Activity Agreement specifically targets vulnerable young people who are facing challenging circumstances. Dominic says “Every person that you meet is different and they all have their own personal issues, from substance misuse to family issues, these young people are desperate to get into employment but face many barriers.”

With support from their Keyworker the young person agrees an action plan of activities based on their interests and abilities. “The work that the Keyworkers do is incredible. They are all really good at engaging with the young people. Without the Keyworkers, these young people would be stuck.”

“It’s essential that organisations like the Activity Agreement exist so that they can address their needs. I hope it continues to receive funding.”