Connexions is the Government's support service for all young people aged 13 to 19 in England. It ensures that young people have the support needed to help them make a smooth transition to adulthood and to working life. Government Offices currently monitor the Connexions Service to ensure it delivers effectively.
More information on the national picture
Connexions brings together all services and support for young people in the way that they want and will use. The approach requires local partners and government to join together to deliver this new service, providing every young person with access to a Personal Adviser. The Adviser will provide a range of support including, learning and employment choices, helping with problems with family and friends or working with young people who require specialist services to overcome problems such as drug dependency.
Connexions Service Partnerships have the responsibility for providing this new service. They have the flexibility to meet local needs, using the design that works best for young people and other partners in that area.
Government Office for the West Midlands works with 6 partnerships covering all 14 local authorities in the following areas:
- Birmingham and Solihull
- Black Country (including Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton)
- Coventry and Warwickshire
- Herefordshire and Worcestershire
- Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin
- Staffordshire (including Stoke on Trent)
In the West Midlands there are 6 Partnership Boards which include representatives from Local Education Authorities, schools, colleges, the Learning and Skills Council and Jobcentre Plus. The Connexions Service involves many different agencies including health services, the police and probation service, youth offending and drug action teams, voluntary and community organisations and many others.
Further information can be found on the Connexions website by clicking on the link at the bottom of this page or by calling 0808 001 3219. Alternatively please contact the Government Office for the West Midlands Connexions Team for more information.
A Green paper 'Youth Matters', was published on 18th July 2005 and is now a subject of public consultation. It covers issues such places to go and things to do for young people, the delivery of information, advice and guidance, and how to support young people who need more support. The Green paper and supporting documents can be found on the website (see link below).
