A MANCHESTER-BASED radio station is launching a new project aimed at improving employability skills in Tameside.
Reform Radio, in collaboration with the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), is behind the scheme for young, unemployed people aged 18-30 who are ready to find work through the power of music and radio production.
Ashton-under-Lyne’s 4C Community Centre, on Taunton Road, will host the project, which seeks to build confidence, enhance professional skills and open doors to employment opportunities.
Its first instalment will run from Friday, November 8 until to Friday November 22 and includes a series of workshops, practical sessions, and dedicated mentoring opportunities.
They will focus on music and radio production – developing technical skills in audio production, content creation, and live radio, employability skills – enhancing teamwork, communication, time-management and confidence and job searching – CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation and coaching.
This project is a direct response to the challenges young people face in today’s job market.
With youth unemployment rates remaining a critical issue across Greater Manchester, its mission is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where participants can develop essential employability skills such as teamwork, time-management, communication, and problem-solving.
From April 2022 to March 2023, Reform Radio – based on Lower Byrom Street in Manchester city centre – worked with 316 young people across 812 creative sessions, with 84 per cent progressing into employment, further training or volunteering.
Its model is to give young people ownership over the platform, with a live show on the station the end goal of their time on the project.
And ambassador Annie Mac said: “The work Reform Radio does is vital, in charging up young people with the confidence they need to go out there in the world and gain employment, and all through the medium of radio and music, which are my two first loves.”
*TO GET involved, people can call 0161 806 08679 or 07356 139707, or they can email projects@reformradio.co.uk.
I loved that radio mast it was awesome