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Next Generation Employment: Building a Connected Ecosystem

  • Event date: 2 June @6:00pm-8:00pm

Merchants’ Hall, The Promenade, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3NH

Building on the powerful conversations and shared momentum of last year’s launch event, the latest chapter in the Next Generation Employment series moves us from insight to action.

Together, we will focus on how Bristol can better align its initiatives, expertise and ambition to create clearer, stronger pathways into employment for young people, focused on achieving tangible, coordinated change that delivers lasting impact for individuals, businesses and our city.

You are warmly invited to join us for Next Generation Employment: Building a Connected Ecosystem with keynotes speeches from Sir Charlie Mayfield and Helen Godwin.

It is estimated that one million young people in the UK are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET) - a stark reminder of both the scale of the challenge and the urgency for action.

Across the West of England, there is no shortage of commitment or innovation. Government, education providers, youth organisations and businesses are all working to address this issue, but too often these efforts operate in isolation.

This event will explore how we can create a more coordinated, effective ecosystem that better supports young people to access opportunities and equips employers to nurture the next generation of talent. By embracing a shared vision and a spirit of collective impact, we will consider what a truly joined-up, cross-sector approach could look like for Bristol.

We are delighted to welcome keynote speakers who bring national influence and regional leadership:

  • Sir Charlie Mayfield – former Chair of the John Lewis Partnership and author of the UK Government’s Keep Britain Working white paper (January 2025); and
  • Helen Godwin – Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA).

Following the keynotes, a panel chaired by Sir Charlie Mayfield will offer diverse perspectives from across business, education and social mobility:

  • Carmen Peacock – South West Chair of the CBI;
  • Julia Gray – Principal and CEO of City of Bristol College; and
  • Andy Bamford – Founder and Chief Executive of PointZeroGroup, and Board Advisor to Making the Leap, the UK’s leading social mobility charity.

This is an opportunity to connect with decision-makers, influencers and practitioners from across sectors, both those shaping strategy and those delivering change on the ground. Through shared insight, open discussion and purposeful networking, we aim to spark the partnerships and practical steps needed to unlock opportunity for young people across our city.

Join us as we take the next step together towards building a connected employment ecosystem so that every young person in Bristol can access and succeed in the world of work.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP to my colleague Thom Crawley by Friday 15th May.