Portsmouth businesses are pledging to help more young people into work.
New figures reveal around 1,750 16 to 25-year-olds in the city are not in education, employment or training.
A Building Futures event, led by Portsmouth City Council, brought together employers, educators and young people to tackle the issue.
The council says supported internships and targeted programmes are already helping young people.
A highlight of the event demonstrated just that – one young person was offered a two-year apprenticeship on stage by Portsmouth construction company Mountjoy, to his obvious delight.
Jack Duncan, pictured second from left at the event, has been on a supported internship with Mountjoy through the council’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) internship programme since November 2025. Jack has impressed so much as a decorator that he was given a two-year apprenticeship at the event.
Dan Carlin, Mountjoy Director, said: “As a result of Jack’s progress, we were delighted to offer him a decorating apprenticeship when he finishes his supported internship.
“This has been a success because of the programme run by the council, and the team and job coaches who support the employer and intern as they transition into work.”
Speakers included Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt and Cabinet Member for Central Services, Cllr Chris Attwell, who said: “Portsmouth’s young people have incredible potential, but too many still face barriers holding them back. Today’s pledge shows what can happen when employers, educators, young people and the council work together with real purpose.
“Through our employability programmes, we’re giving young people the skills, confidence and hands‑on experience to prepare them for successful careers and futures. There’s many exciting opportunities for businesses to join our programmes and reap the benefits that talented young people like Jack have to offer.”
Attendees discussed practical ways of breaking down barriers, before pledging to work together to maximise the opportunities for the city’s young people.
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