We’re delighted to announce our partnership with N Brown to improve social mobility

As part of a two-year charity partnership with GMYN, we’re delighted to announce that N Brown has funded a pilot youth employability programme called ‘Level Up’ which will provide skills, training and advice to young people across Greater Manchester.

‘Level Up’ is a 12-week programme which will include 25 hours of paid training covering essential skills like financial literacy, resilience and workplace expectations, as well as a four-week paid work placement tailored to the interests of the participants.

Matthew*, 18, has been helped by GMYN on his employability journey and says our support has boosted his confidence and taken the ‘fear’ out of entering the workplace.

He says: “There are loads of barriers in the way for people of my age trying to find work, and that became so much worse after lockdown because we were held back for so long from socialising and working.

“Personally, I found readjusting back to things really challenging, especially speaking to new people and being in a different setting. My confidence was really knocked. Working with GMYN has done a lot for building up my confidence and skills again. It’s also helped take the fear out of entering a workplace.

“I really feel that we, as young people, have qualities that employers should value and look for. I’d love to see all businesses take the time to get to know young people and what they can bring to work- like what GMYN does – rather than pre-judge us based on our age or circumstances.”

N Brown has committed to funding a course for 10 young people, due to begin in September 2025.

Natalie Rogers, Chief People and Sustainability Officer at N Brown, said: “I am delighted that N Brown colleagues have chosen Greater Manchester Youth Network as our new charity partner – a charity which shares our focus on serving the underserved.

“As one of the oldest businesses in Manchester, we’re passionate about supporting local causes and we’re looking forward to building a meaningful partnership with Greater Manchester Youth Network to support young people in Greater Manchester.”

Our CEO Alex Fairweather, added: “We’re absolutely delighted to be chosen as N Brown’s charity partner. Their support will make a real difference to young people across Greater Manchester who may be facing challenging circumstances. We’re excited to start working together and can’t wait to see the incredible impact this partnership will have.

A huge thank you to the fabulous staff at N Brown staff for choosing to support GMYN!

*Some names have been changed.