Portsmouth businesses have pledged to support the city’s young people to break down barriers many face to finding jobs and opportunities.
In Portsmouth, an estimated 1,750 16-25-year-olds are not in education, employment or training.
To tackle this, a Building Futures for Young People event was hosted by Portsmouth City Council, bringing together local businesses, council services, education providers and young people to discuss the action needed.
A highlight of the event demonstrated just that – one young person was offered a two-year apprenticeship on stage by Portsmouth construction company Mountjoy, to his obvious delight.
Jack Duncan, pictured second from left at the event, has been on a supported internship with Mountjoy through the council’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) internship programme since November 2025. Jack has impressed so much as a decorator that he was given a two-year apprenticeship at the event.
Dan Carlin, Mountjoy Director, said:
“As a result of Jack’s progress, we were delighted to offer him a decorating apprenticeship when he finishes his supported internship.
“This has been a success because of the programme run by the council, and the team and job coaches who support the employer and intern as they transition into work.”
The event heard how the council’s supported internships programme provides young people with SEND, like Jack, hands-on experience in real workplaces. Delivered with the City of Portsmouth College, interns are supported by trained coaches in work placements in the council and partner companies.
Other young people, particularly care experienced young people*, are helped to progress into work and further education through a six-week programme delivered by the council’s Careers and Progression team.
The event heard the successes of other young people on employment programmes which has led to full time employment at companies including Voi Scooters and Comserv (UK) Ltd.
Speakers included Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt and Cabinet Member for Central Services, Cllr Chris Attwell, who said:
“Portsmouth’s young people have incredible potential, but too many still face barriers holding them back. Today’s pledge shows what can happen when employers, educators, young people and the council work together with real purpose.
“Through our employability programmes, we’re giving young people the skills, confidence and hands‑on experience to prepare them for successful careers and futures. There’s many exciting opportunities for businesses to join our programmes and reap the benefits that talented young people like Jack have to offer.”
Attendees discussed practical ways of breaking down barriers, before pledging to work together to maximise the opportunities for the city’s young people.
Portsmouth organisations wanting to know more about employability programmes should email andy.taylor@portsmouthcc.gov.uk for supported internships and kev.sadler@portsmouthcc.gov.uk for other employability programmes.
*Care experienced refers to young people aged 16-25 who have previously been in the care of Portsmouth City Council and are given support as they move into adulthood and greater independence.