tHE BIG PICTURE Fifteen’s Apprentice Programme was set up to help unemployed young people into fulfilling, sustainable careers. But the benefits go much further than simply getting someone into work. These are just some of the positive effects of the programme: The apprentices G ained meaningful employment I mproved social skills I mproved budgeting skills I mproved family life I mproved long-term health Reduced risk of homelessness Reduced risk of offending I mproved long-term wellbeing I ncreased long-term income Their families B etter relationships with their children Their children Reduced risk of growing up in poverty and being unemployed The State I ncreased social mobility Reduced risk of homelessness R educed offending
The researchers have looked closely at the first eight years of Fifteen’s work, following up graduates to find out how their lives have changed. Through interviews with past and present apprentices and their family members, analysis of statistics, and surveys of state policy, the researchers have worked out the value of Fifteen’s work. This means that every £1 invested in Fifteen, £9.50 of social value is generated. They estimate that in an average financial year the total benefits of the programme – to apprentices, their families and the State – are worth over £5 million. “ Apprentices learn skills that will help them for the rest of their lives: to improve their professional and personal relationships and to cope with challenges that they will encounter. The Fifteen approach aims to create a highly supportive, even familial environment for apprentices. The combination of high quality skills training, wraparound support services and ambition for the young people make it stand out from other training services.” Social Return on Investment