Darlington Employment Initiative (DEI) has placed more than 100 local young people aged 18-21 into paid work placements with 65 actively recruiting employers across a range of sectors since August 2025.

The scheme, funded by Tees Valley Combined Authority as part of the Department of Work and Pensions' Youth Trailblazer Guarantee Programme, uses an employer-led approach to support young residents not in employment, education or training. Participants gain skills, confidence and hands-on experience through extended work trials, while employers can recruit and develop new talent with reduced financial risk.

DEI has also expanded its team to provide dedicated support for working-age adults with physical or mental health conditions, including those who have been signed off work, lost their job due to ill health or disability, or face complex barriers to employment. The service recently relocated to Enterprise House on Valley Street to provide more accessible support for people with disabilities.

Local hospitality businesses benefit

Shape Patisserie & Bake and its sister businesses — Banqo, Influence Café and Number 8 Bakehouse — used the programme to address ongoing recruitment challenges for skilled bakers and front-of-house staff. The group offered nine young people paid opportunities to learn new skills in the hospitality sector. Eight of the nine recruits were employed on a permanent basis.

Gabriel Howard, 20, now works as an assistant chef at Shape Patisserie & Bake after completing his work placement. Before starting, he was homeless and living on the streets. He said: "This opportunity has been life changing and made finding a job straightforward and accessible. Not only have I developed practical skills and gained valuable work experience in a supportive environment, but I've also grown in confidence and, most importantly, I can now afford a place to live."

Council and regional backing

Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy at Darlington Borough Council, said: "There is a lot of young talent in Darlington and initiatives like this play an important role in raising aspirations and making sure our residents realise their potential. They also help minimise recruitment costs, support smaller businesses and help our local economy to grow and thrive."

Cllr Lisa Evans, Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for employment and skills, said: "The success of the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer has been nothing short of fantastic so far. It is helping young people take their first steps into rewarding careers and giving employers confidence. We've already seen the difference it can make to people's lives, and now we want even more young people to come forward and be part of it."

Current opportunities

A new round of the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer has been launched this year across the Tees Valley. Participants receive support and guidance from a dedicated local Key Worker, personalised careers advice and backing, and can be offered work placements of up to five months.

Young people interested in accessing support can express their interest online at https://cognisoftform.azurewebsites.net/form/id/tees-valley-eoi. More information about DEI is available at www.darlington.gov.uk/DEI.