Editorial Comment:

Focus of study

This qualitative evaluation sets out to assess whether the Intensive Gateway Trailblazers (IGTs) were more effective in helping young people find work more quickly than existing Gateway provision. A total of 145 young people were interviewed: 86 IGT clients and 59 control group clients. Most interviewees were aged 18-20 years.

Key findings

The main difference between IGT and the regular Gateway is a mandatory course of job search and work preparation activities involving employers. Of the activities provided on the mandatory course, clients identified the practical and tangible aspects such as CV writing and interview techniques as most useful. Clients appreciated the involvement of employers who helped them to gain experience of how companies recruit and select staff.

Many respondents reported positive benefits such as increased self-confidence, team working ability and knowledge of the labour market. Increased motivation and more positive attitudes towards work were also discernible from responses.

The IGT also involves more contact between client and their PAs than the existing Gateway. Many clients felt that PAs did not understand their aspirations and were solely interested in getting them into work. Respondents frequently described their PAs as ‘pushy’ which was helpful to some but experienced as pressure by others. Positive reactions to PAs were often associated with help in realising aspirations through an unknown or unexplored route. Increased contact with PAs helped with jobsearch. Special needs issues were often not identified and/or adequately addressed. The authors suggest this is a reflection of the relationship between clients and their PAs.

For the majority of clients it is too early to say whether they will get jobs or not. Those in the control group and on IGT who gained employment at early stages in the Gateway tended to have focused job aspirations.

Additional comments This evaluation suggests that guidance to help focus aspirations is helpful in securing early employment outcomes. The report also highlights the importance of the relationship between client and PA, and of the latter considering each client’s individual needs and aspirations.