Building Brighter Futures: How RISE UP is Empowering Young People Through Building Aspirations

We’ve been celebrating Youth Work Week 2025 (3-9 November 2025). This year’s theme perfectly captures what youth work is all about – helping young people unlock their potential, discover new opportunities, and build the confidence to take the next step in life. 

One powerful example of this in action is through RISE UP, one of the amazing delivery partners funded as part of Building Aspirations, our national employability programme developed in partnership with Intact Insurance (formerly RSA Insurance). The programme encourages youth to reach their full potential and ultimately help make their communities more resilient.  

Bridging the Gap Between Young Talent and Opportunity

At UK Youth, we know that young people have huge potential – but not everyone has equal access to opportunities. Building Aspirations was created to change that. The programme supports young people aged 18–24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), helping them develop the skills, confidence, and self-belief to move towards meaningful employment.

Through partnerships with youth organisations like RISE UP, this work is happening in communities across the UK – ensuring support is local, personal, and responsive to the real challenges young people face.

The RISE UP Approach: Meeting Young People Where They Are

Since January, RISE UP has engaged and supported over 250 young people aged 16–30 from across the UK, many of whom have been long-term NEET. More than 60% of participants identify as being from a Black, Asian, or minority ethnic background, reflecting the organisation’s deep commitment to inclusion and equity.

RISE UP’s work begins with personalised, one-to-one guidance, helping each young person build a tailored action plan. From there, participants progress to practical workshops in CV writing, interview preparation, job applications, and mentoring – all designed to boost confidence and create real pathways to employment.

Daniel, a participant of the Building Aspirations programme, shared:

“I’ve learnt how to build a CV, talk to employers, and present myself with confidence. Programmes like this are so important – I didn’t realise how much I’d grow until I started.”

Building Aspirations: Confidence, Clarity, and Career Direction

Since March, 107 young people have completed the Building Aspirations programme through RISE UP, gaining new skills, confidence, and direction for their futures. In Greater Manchester, where the programme is UK Youth-funded, 59 young people have taken part – with an incredible 22 progressing into employment within just 12 weeks of completing the programme. Alongside this, RISE UP has extended delivery to Leeds, Birmingham, Cambridge, and Thanet through non-funded sessions, ensuring even more young people can benefit from the same life-changing opportunities and support.

Participants consistently report feeling:

• A stronger sense of confidence
• A clearer idea of their career direction
• And greater motivation to keep applying for jobs and opportunities

Alongside the core employability training, guest facilitators and volunteers from partner organisations have led inspiring sessions on industry-specific career pathways, financial literacy, and professional skills – giving participants practical tools and insights from people working in the sectors they aspire to join.

Armaan, who did the Building Aspirations programme, reflected:

“It’s a life-changing experience. I’ve learnt so many skills – from teamwork to communication – that I can use in any role. I came here not knowing anyone, and I’ve left with friends, confidence, and direction.”

Youth Work in Action: Building Brighter Futures Together

RISE UP’s success shows the transformative power of youth work — the relationships, trust, and belief that enable young people to see what’s possible. By combining the reach and resources of UK Youth and Intact Insurance with the expertise of grassroots organisations like RISE UP, we’re helping to bridge the gap between young people’s potential and the opportunities they deserve.

As we celebrate Youth Work Week, we’re proud to recognise all the youth workers, mentors, and young people who are building brighter futures – one conversation, one opportunity, and one success story at a time.

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Find out more about Building Aspirations: ukyouth.org/building-aspirations
Discover more about Youth Work Week: nya.org.uk/yww25/
Find out more about RISE UP: riseup.org