Upturn Social Enterprise and the Springboard Project forge innovative partnership

Date published: 11 September 2023


Upturn Social Enterprise, a pioneering organisation dedicated to fostering social impact and community development, has announced an innovative strategic partnership with the Springboard Project, a vital component of The New Bridge Multi Academy Trust.

The collaboration marks a significant step towards enhancing the lives of individuals and communities in Oldham through innovative initiatives and social engagement.

The partnership between Upturn Social Enterprise and the Springboard Project will ensure that every young person who attends the ‘Project’ gets access to the high-quality careers advice and guidance ensuring that the young people who attend the project leave with the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to grow into the best versions of themselves possible.

The Springboard Project, under the umbrella of The New Bridge Multi Academy Trust, works with young people aged 14-19 who have had unsuccessful experiences of education in the past and who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (and EHCP).

The organisation has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality education and support services to individuals with special educational needs and disabilities.

Their dedication to inclusivity and fostering a sense of belonging is evident in their work, making them an ideal partner for Upturn Social Enterprise.

Maria Williams, Co-Founder of Upturn, said: “As part of this partnership, we will be supporting young people across Oldham, providing them with skills, knowledge and careers advice and guidance which will include vital work experience, employment and life skills.

“Upturn Enterprise is determined and committed to making a difference and changing life’s young people’s lives of Oldham for the better.

"This partnership is the perfect demonstration of how we want to work with other local employers to create pathways to deliver our goals.”

Upturn Social Enterprise has been at the forefront of empowering marginalized communities by providing them with tools, resources, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The organization's mission aligns perfectly with The Springboard Project's commitment to creating inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with diverse abilities and backgrounds.

Andy Howard, Executive Head (SEMH), New Bridge Group MAT, said: “This initiative will ensure that every young person who attends Springboard Project will have the best chance possible to gain a real understanding of future career opportunities and by partnering with Upturn, we are championing local knowledge and local opportunities, helping to keep Oldham young people in local employment.

“We also believe that we cannot support our young people in isolation, and so always look for innovative ways to support our wider community, the young people’s families.

"This can be through offering a friendly ear / support to the adults around our students through to real, practical support via our ‘Project Pantry’, a one-stop option for families struggling with the cost of living crisis.”

The Project is part of the New Bridge Group, a specialist MAT focused on supporting young people across Oldham, Tameside, Rochdale and Stockport with additional needs.

Through the MAT, and partnerships with wider external agencies, staff can support young people up to the age of 25, ensuring they have the best possible outcomes and move successfully into adulthood.

Upturn Enterprise is committed to building a community of stakeholders, employers and employer representatives who are passionate about recovery and creating pathways for our young local talent to develop.

In times of continued challenge, we want to work with those who want to embrace new pathways to work and play their part in addressing the challenges and barriers that our young people face in getting closer to work.

If you are interested in becoming a partner or want to help contribute towards to cause please contact Maria Williams on 0161 652 9000 or email: info@upturn.org.uk, or visit the website: https://www.upturn.org.uk

To find out further information on the Springboard Project, please visit: www.springboardproject.org 

You can also call 0161 883 3250 or email: info@springboardproject.org


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