DICE Design Lab: Work-Readiness Course
Participant Reflection
What was it like being part of the DICE team and supporting the Design Lab?
Being a DICE Crew member is like a potluck. There's the 'base' i.e. what brings us together, our goal for the time, and each crew member, organiser and person who moves through DICE brings their own ingredients. As we interact and collaborate we all add our ideas, opinions, and we let it simmer. Everyone does their own work behind the scenes and by the end we have our potluck where everyone who puts in gets something back – whether it be experience, networking opportunities or satisfaction of giving back to the community.
This was highlighted during the Design Lab as each person’s role was clear and helped in achieving a cohesive delivery. This allowed for us to focus on the feedback received by participants and building a repertoire. The Design Lab especially emphasised one of my main joys of working with DICE which is the diversity of backgrounds and life experiences that helped ease the groups nerves on meeting new people and expressing their own opinions.
What stood out to you from the young people's conversations and feedback? Were there any comments, ideas or moments that really stuck with you?
The main takeaway from conversing with the young people were that the majority were seeking employment and eager to search. Many are hindered due to life circumstances, as well as, a lack of experience. However, this lack of experience is not because of laziness or trying but due to the scarcity of opportunities and employers’ expectations of applicants having vast previous experience. In addition, a few were curious of alternative routes to employment outside the traditional workforce.
Why do you think a Work-Readiness Course like this is important for young people?
The work-readiness course is essential for young people, especially NEET individuals (Not engaged in Education, Employment or Training) who are struggling to find employment or have anxieties about entering the workforce. For many young people the transition between education to apprenticeship and work is already a stressful period. Not even considering how many people’s lives are more complex and the journey to employment may be delayed due to unpredictable factors. The search for employment can already be disheartening, along with the lack of structure or community that often come with a job, many start to feel isolated which further adds to the anxiety or frustrations that may occur.
That is why the work-readiness programme is a need for young people struggling to enter workforces, especially for those who have the motivation and eagerness to re-engage with work but need a bit of guidance; as not only does it teach them practical skills that will aid them in their re-transitioning into their desired paths like education, work, training or apprenticeships. It also allows them to meet and relate to others in similar situations, overall easing the isolation and helps build their confidence and approachability.
If you could say one thing to employers, funders or organisations about investing in young people, what would it be?
Programmes like the WRP are invaluable as the rate of unemployment has risen alongside people struggling with mental health in recent years. It is essential that resources and support are in place and accessible to young people struggling to enter the job force as many are put off from the traditional workforce due to many employers refusing to hire individuals with limited experience and the lack or preparation provided whilst in education outside of making a CV. With more resources and opportunities specifically dedicated to young people the amount of young people reengaging with work will positively shift and will find many thankful for the opportunities and eager to grow professionally.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for the future of the DICE Work-Readiness Course?
I am eager to see the DICE work-readiness course in completion because the range of activities and goals behind the project are a need and can only better the community and those interacting with them . The programme's aims of building confidence and aiding in the transition back into working life can only better young people as it fosters habits of independence and community.
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