“Barriers to Workplace Equality: CEO Shares Insight for National Apprenticeship Week”
London, UK – As National Apprenticeship Week commences, the CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, Leila Thomas, has taken to the organization’s blog to discuss the obstacles that some individuals still face when it comes to accessing equal opportunities in the workplace.
While apprenticeships offer a chance to earn while learning, Thomas highlights the challenges that disadvantaged young people may encounter in securing these opportunities. “Imagine you’re an 18-year-old without parents who work in the City, who haven’t been able to provide you with work experience or help with your CV,” she writes. “Or perhaps you can’t afford to travel to your apprenticeship interview.”
In response to these barriers, the UK government has announced the Youth Guarantee, a long-term plan to overhaul and boost apprenticeships, as well as offer work experience for all who need it. Thomas acknowledges the positive intent behind this proposal, stating, “For years, our charity has worked to empower underrepresented individuals, starting with 9-year-olds in primary school by connecting them with mentors, relatable role models, and career opportunities.”
However, Thomas emphasizes that simply offering work experience or apprenticeships does not guarantee a level playing field. “Many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds face barriers long before they enter a professional environment,” she explains. These barriers can include a lack of soft skills, awareness of apprenticeships, confidence to network, financial means to present themselves professionally, and understanding of workplace conventions. These are elements that more privileged peers may take for granted.
To truly address these issues, Thomas emphasizes the need for long-term support. “Through 1:1 mentorship sessions, we focus on building their confidence and ensuring they are truly ready by giving them the skills to thrive in a professional setting,” she writes. “This preparation doesn’t just happen – it requires funding, expertise, and commitment.”
Thomas also stresses the importance of early years support in creating a work-ready candidate. “The cost of creating a work-ready candidate straight out of school is significant,” she notes. “A mentoring program or work experience facilitated by Urban Synergy costs over £1,000 per young person, accounting for training, safeguarding, DBS checks, travel, and multiple phone calls, texts, and reminders to young people.”
She goes on to explain that many young people may be shy and withdrawn, and require a lot of encouragement to enter a professional setting with confidence. “We give them a sense of belonging through a series of supporting programs from the age of 9,” she says.
In order for the Youth Guarantee to be successful, Thomas believes that it must be accompanied by investment in the education needed to prepare young people for the workplace. This includes access to relatable role models, mentorship, skill-building workshops, and ongoing support networks. “Let’s not stop at promises,” she urges. “If we’re serious about economic growth and transforming lives and communities by bringing young people into the workplace, we need to ensure every young person is not only given a seat at the table but is equipped to make the most of it.”
Leila Thomas is the CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, a social mobility charity dedicated to empowering underrepresented individuals. To learn more about the organization and how to partner with them, please visit their website at www.urbansynergy.com. Donations can also be made through the website.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.