A PILOT training programme in Herefordshire has exceeded its target for inspiring young learners into the health and social care sector.

Hoople was set the challenge of stimulating the interest of NEETS – young people who are not in education, employment or training – to progress to an apprenticeship.

With the programme now finished, six young women are now going into an apprenticeship in health and social care.

Skills for Care, which provided Hoople with £15,000 for the pilot, says an extra million workers will be needed in the adult social care sector by 2025.

And according to a survey by the UCU lecturers’ union, NEETS are a challenging group to reach with 40 per cent saying they do not feel part of society.

Susan Hobson, foundation learning and functional skills programme leader at Hoople, said: “We’re really pleased with the result of the pilot. Not only did the students earn extra qualifications, but they now have additional skills that they can use in any situation to help them succeed.

“We have every confidence that they will all be able to complete their apprenticeships.”

For more information, visit hoopleltd.co.uk or call the Hoople training centre on 01432 845738.