Unlocking Creative Careers for Young People in Lambeth: The Next Us Initiative

Empowering Lambeth's Youth

To help young people from all backgrounds in Lambeth access well-paid jobs in the creative and digital sectors, 120 under-24s have signed up for the council’s Next Us programme. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for those who were previously not in education, employment, or training.

Building Future Career Paths

Participants are engaged in a variety of jobs and skills activities to enhance their career prospects. They take part in internships, skills sessions, and entrepreneurship courses designed to unlock their talents.

Councillor Marcia Cameron, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Economic Inclusion, stated, “Lambeth is home to so many talented young people, and it’s vital that they have access to real opportunities in the creative and digital industries.” She emphasized the importance of removing barriers such as financial struggles, lack of experience, or confidence.

Next Us Programme Highlights

The Next Us programme not only connects young people to paid opportunities, but also equips them with the necessary skills, support, and networks to build long-term careers. The programme is currently open for applications via lambethnow.co.uk/next-us.

Partnership for Success

The council’s initiative is a collaboration between ELEVATE, aimed at opening up the creative sector, and Lambeth Made, which focuses on helping young people reach their full potential. Under Next Us, Lambeth Council’s Creative Link Workers have connected participants to:

• Creative bootcamps in music marketing, filmmaking, and digital marketing
• Paid internships (6 months) and work placements (20 hours) at London Living Wage
• English & math support to enhance essential skills
• Entrepreneurship programmes and career guidance
• A support fund to eliminate financial barriers to participation

The Creative Link Workers provide one-to-one support, helping young people build confidence, prepare for interviews, and navigate their journey into the workforce.