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Imagine it’s your first day at a new job. You walk in, coffee in hand, feeling a little nervous but also excited. The work fits you. The environment feels right.

Now, let’s be real—getting there isn’t always easy. The future you doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. You have to make some choices.

At DurhamWorks, we’re here to help you shape that future. Whether you’re finishing school or considering a career change, we’ve got tools and support to guide you every step of the way.

Here’s How We Help

Starting can be tough. Maybe you don’t feel confident. Maybe you’re not sure where to even begin. That’s where we come in:

• Skill-building: We’ll help you craft a CV that gets noticed, prep you for interviews, and build the confidence you need to step into your first day.
• Personalized advice: Unsure what job suits you? We’ll help you figure it out and point you in the right direction.
• Employer connections: We work with employers who are looking for people like you. No experience? No problem.
• Support with challenges: Whether it’s accessibility issues or self-doubt, we’re here to make sure you have what you need to succeed.

Why Start Now?

The thing about “future you” is they won’t exist if you don’t take action today. It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be a step forward.

Ready to Start?

The future you is out there, showing up and making things happen. Let’s get you started.

Get started with DurhamWorks today! Complete our referral form or call us on 03000 262 930

Durham County Council’s Sessional Employment Programme offers paid work experience opportunities tailored to Care Experienced Young People. By aligning placements with individual talents and career aspirations, the program aims to foster meaningful career development.

In February 2024, Stephen, a young person in care, sought a Sessional Employment placement that would complement his Personal Trainer studies.

A suitable opportunity was identified at Freemans Quay Leisure Centre, thanks to assistance from Volunteer Culture and Sport. Stephen began his placement in April, working one day a week.

Stephen excelled in his role and was well-received by the team. Encouraged to enhance his qualifications, he pursued and completed a lifeguard course with funding support facilitated through the Area Action Partnership (AAP).

Upon completion, Stephen was informed of job openings at Freemans Quay by manager Peter Symm, who expressed interest in his continued employment.

With support, Stephen applied for Leisure Attendant roles at Durham and another local authority. He secured interviews and received job offers from both. Ultimately, he accepted the role with Durham and will be working at Freemans Quay, rejoining the team where he previously completed his placement.

Stephen’s successful transition from a Sessional Employment placement to a permanent position at Freemans Quay highlights the effectiveness of Durham’s employment programme in facilitating career growth and stability for Care Experienced Young People.

Share Your Thoughts on Careers Support for Young People and Adults in County Durham

Durham County Council is working closely with dmh associates to co-create with local partners a new all-age Careers Framework designed to support everyone in County Durham.

A well developed Careers Framework can help ensure people of all ages receive personalised high-quality careers support throughout their lives.

The researchers would really like to hear from you – please click on the following link to share your experiences and ideas:

‘Survey of Young People and Adults’.

This should take no more than 10 minutes to complete, and your feedback is really important to us.

By completing the survey, you will be greatly helping to improve careers support services across the County.

Thank you!

Zoe O’Keefe, a 20-year old who had just finished sixth form, felt lost and scared about her future. Unsure how to apply for or even looks for a job, Zoe was referred to DurhamWorks by the Job Centre.

Her initial interactions with DurhamWorks were positive and friendly, providing her with much-needed reassurance. DurhamWorks offered Zoe guidance on her career aspirations and enrolled her in a hospitality course, which she completed successfully. This experience significantly boosted her confidence and have her a clear understanding of her career goals.

Zoe’s participation in the DurhamWorks Youth Forum and in Youth Conferences further developed her communication skills and ability to interact with employers. According to David Curry, Young People’s Engagement Worker for DurhamWorks, Zoe’s confidence improved dramatically.

Her active participation in various programs helped her grow, eventually leading to her securing a job with a local company in Bishop Auckland.

Through the assistance of DurhamWorks, Zoe gained skills, confidence, and a clear career path.

Zoe and DurhamWorks Transcript.pdf

If, like Zoe was, you’re unsure how to apply or look for jobs, start your DurhamWorks journey today by completing our referral form.