Bury Care Academy Young People's Project: Days 1-2 Recap

Building Tomorrow's Care Workforce: Inside Bury Care Academy's Young People's Project

Published 24th Feb

What is the Young People's Project?

Bury Care Academy's Young People's Project is an Economic Inactivity Trailblazer programme designed to support young people in Bury into meaningful, sustained careers in adult social care. Developed and delivered by Bury Care Academy's own Workforce Development Officer, Megan Ashbrook, the programme spans four weeks and combines certified training, care placements, CV support, mock interviews, and one-to-one coaching — everything a young person needs to confidently step into the care sector.

This week, our cohort arrived at Bury Parish Church to begin that journey. Here's a look at what happened across the first two days.

Wide angle shot of two members of the Bury Care Academy team introducing the Young People

What Happened on Day 1 of the Young People's Project?

Monday, 23rd February marked the beginning of something significant for this cohort of young people. The morning opened with welcomes, introductions, and icebreakers before participants received a full outline of the programme ahead, four weeks that could genuinely change the direction of their working lives.

From there, the group wasted no time getting into the substance of adult social care. The morning covered an introduction to social care, including the 6Cs, the values that underpin quality care, and the day-to-day responsibilities of a social care worker. This was followed by a session on effective communication, one of the most fundamental skills any care worker can develop.

After a break, the afternoon moved into safeguarding and duty of care and candour, giving participants a grounding in some of the most important responsibilities they will carry in any care role.

The day closed with a session from Martin Burder from Art of Brilliance, who delivered an inspiring talk on mindset and resilience, exploring how your past doesn't have to control your future and introducing participants to the concept of 2%ers and the power of choice. For many young people entering a new environment and stepping into a new future, it was exactly the right note to end on. Martin came full of energy, guitar in hand, and even had a few of our Young People singing along to Adele at one stage.

What Did Day 2 of the Young People's Project Cover?

Tuesday 24th February opened with a recap of Day 1, giving participants space to share thoughts and questions before two outstanding guest speakers took centre stage.

Paul Carr, Head of Safeguarding at Bury Council, delivered a session on safeguarding, building on Monday's introduction with expert depth and real-world context. For young people stepping into the care sector for the first time, hearing directly from a senior safeguarding professional brings the subject to life in a way no textbook can.

The second highlight of the morning came from the Falls Team at Bardoc: Nina, Arman, and Leanne, who delivered a hands-on equipment demonstration. Participants had the chance to engage directly with the practical side of adult social care, getting their hands on real equipment and gaining first-hand insight into what working in care actually looks like day to day.

A huge thank you to both Paul and the Bardoc Falls Team for giving their time to invest in the next generation of care workers. The quality of guest speakers this cohort has access to reflects the strength of the partnerships Bury Care Academy has built across the borough.

The afternoon continued with sessions on Health and Safety, COSHH, and Infection Prevention and Control — including handwashing technique and correct use of PPE. Essential, practical knowledge that every care worker relies on from their very first shift.

Session Highlights

See all the highlights from the first 2 days of the Young People's Project

Side angle shot of Bury Care Academy trainer introducing the Young People

Our very own Workforce Development Officer Megan Ashbrook introducing the Young People's Project

Bury Care Academy trainer stood at the front of the class room speaking while attendee is seen smiling while listening to another participant talking to the trainer

Group discussions and ice breakers to kick us off!

Guest speaker from the Art of Brilliance gestures to our attendees while they look on

'Your past doesn't have to define your future' - Martin Burder from Art of Brilliance

Head of Safeguarding at Bury Council smiles and looks towards an attendee who is engaging with him in a discussion

Key insights from Paul Carr Head of Safeguarding at Bury Council

Shout-out to Jayden volunteering demo some equipment with the Bardoc team!

Building key skills for Health and Social Care

What's Still to Come?

For these young people, their journey has only just begun. Starting from next week, they'll have visits from people with lived experience, and they'll be heading out to shadow local care providers in the area, as well as this we have certified training, CV workshops, mock interviews, and coaching sessions. This cohort is only just getting started.

We'll be sharing updates throughout the programme, so keep an eye on the Bury Care Academy website and social media for more.

Thinking About a Career in Care?

Bury Care Academy is currently recruiting for care roles across Bury, with some positions requiring no prior experience. Click here to browse current vacancies, or get in touch with the team directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Young People's Project? The Young People's Project is a four-week Economic Inactivity Trailblazer programme delivered by Bury Care Academy. It supports young people in Bury into careers in adult social care through certified training, care placements, CV support, mock interviews, and coaching.

Who is the programme designed for? The programme is designed for young people who are currently economically inactive and are looking for a route into meaningful employment. No prior experience in care is required.

Where does the Young People's Project take place? The current cohort is based at Bury Parish Church for their training sessions, with care placements taking place across Bury.

What qualifications or training do participants receive? Participants receive certified training as part of the programme, covering key areas of adult social care including safeguarding, health and safety, infection prevention and control, and more.

Will I get a job at the end of the programme? Every participant has the opportunity to secure an interview with a partner employer upon completing the programme. For anyone who hasn't secured a role by the end of four weeks, Bury Care Academy's support continues until they are in employment.

Who delivers the Young People's Project? The programme was created and is delivered by Megan Ashbrook, Workforce Development Officer at Bury Care Academy, supported by expert guest speakers and partners from across Bury's health and social care sector.

How do I apply for the Young People's Project? Get in touch with Bury Care Academy via the contact page to find out about upcoming cohorts and how to apply.

Are there care jobs available in Bury right now? Yes, Bury Care Academy is currently recruiting for care roles across Bury, including positions that require no prior experience. Visit burycareacademy.org to browse current vacancies.