About Newcastle Futures

The economy of Newcastle has been growing slowly but steadily over recent years. In March 2005 there were 45,700 residents, 29% of the working age population economically inactive.

Newcastle Strategic Partnership has identified addressing 'Worklessness' as one of its key priorities. In November 2005 the board agreed a new partnership approach for Worklessness and well being in Newcastle. These partners include Newcastle City Council, Newcastle Partnership, Job Centre Plus and a range of other stakeholders.

Newcastle Futures is now the central element for Worklessness representing a new partnership approach for Newcastle’s thematic programme. It is a company limited by guarantee, established by Newcastle Partnership.

It will provide:

  • The strategic co-ordination function central to a range of elements delivered by different providers across the city, and offering help and support to partners wanting to help individuals progress towards work
  • A team of 15 Customer Co-ordinators deliver a case management service which helps individuals navigate through the plethora of provisions and services involved in employability. The Co-ordinators will offer impartial advice and support, which is tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals.
  • Customer Co-ordinators based in the community preferably alongside voluntary and community partners. This will ensure Co-ordinators build stronger relationships with partners.
  • Strong links with partners to identify and engage those customers who struggle to access help and advice from public agencies.
  • A flexible fund to pay for training and those incidental expenses that can overcome barriers that prevent people getting into work.
  • The Co-ordinators will also work with people for a period of up to 6 months when they enter work, to ensure individuals are given extra support to overcome any problems that may arise in the first few months of employment.

The focus on working alongside partners in the community instead of setting up in stand alone bases, will ensure that any additional funds available for provision can be directed to community partners as appropriate.