Action for Race Equality is harnessing young people’s voices
The Youth Action Network is a platform for young people to get involved in an exciting area of work to improve employment opportunities and services for young Black, Asian, Mixed and minority ethnic people across England.
We are currently looking for motivated young people, aged 16-24, who are keen to make a difference and play a role in shaping our work.
If you’re thinking of joining the Youth Action Network, read our FAQs below to find out more!
1. As member of the Youth Action Network what type of activities will I take part in?
You decide which activities to take part in.
The following drop downs give you a taste of what to expect:
Discussions
You’ll decide what topical employment issues facing Black, Asian and ethnic minority young that you want to talk about. This could involve
- where to search for jobs
- access to quality apprenticeships
- career guidance at school/college/university
- discrimination in the workplace; fitting in a new workplac
- preparation for work placements and job interview
- career progression and ‘quiet quitting’.
During our engagement with you, we will also focus on developing your skills in areas such as resilience and confidence.
Short Surveys and Polls
This will involve asking questions to research what youth organisations providing employability solutions are doing. For example, you may be finding responding to questions like, what does a quality job mean to you?
Blog posts, video clips, comment on reports:
You may be asked to contribute to our social media and communications activities by:
- writing about your personal experiences finding employment
- thinking of ideas for social media content when it comes to special awareness raising days or months
- sending voice clips of your opinions on issues
- giving feedback or commenting on latest research or reports
Event Planning
ARE is hoping to host multiple conferences and events around youth employment and opportunities for Black, Asian and Mixed heritage people. You will be a key part in shaping these events, and can even have the opportunity of speaking or performing during them.
2. How do I apply?
Complete this application form.
If you need support completing the form, or some reasonable adjustments made, please email Freya Johnson, Employment Programmes Delivery Lead.
3. What is the time commitment?
We will have a meeting, about 2 hours long, every month.
Specific details regarding time commitments will be decided by the members themselves. We are aware that young people will have other time commitments so we will try to be flexible around your own time and needs.
4. Will the activities I join take place online or in person?
Activities and meetings will take place on a remote online basis, but some events will be in person. There may be opportunities to attend other ARE programme events or visit our offices too.
5. Will I be paid for my time?
Yes, you will be paid the London Living Wage which is currently £13.85. This is regardless of whether you live in London or outside.
6. How will I be paid and how often?
You will be paid monthly. The amount will depend on how many hours you commit to the Youth Action Network each month.
7. What else can I earn on the youth panel?
Vouchers!
You can earn vouchers while being a Youth Action Network member, for taking part in competitions as well as surveys such as ARE’s Racial Terminology Survey.
8. Do I need to come from London to apply for this role?
No, this opportunity is for young people across England.
9. Do I need any experience to apply for this role?
No, you do not experience to be part of this panel. Just bring yourself and your ideas, because you are enough. All young people no matter your previous job experience or qualifications.
We want to hear about all your experiences and opinions.
10. What happens after I have sent my application in?
After your application has been sent in you will receive an email to acknowledge that your application has been received. If successful you will receive another email, inviting you to a short interview/conversation on Microsoft Teams to get to know you better, and for a chance for you to elaborate on your answers in your form.
11. How many people will be on the interview panel?
There will be two people on the interview panel including the Employment Programmes Delivery Lead.
12. If successful, when will I start the role?
If successful, you will start right away, with your first session being the next meeting.
13. Who can I contact if I have any enquires?
If you have any question, you can contact Employment Programmes Delivery Lead: Freya Johnson
14. Will there be an opportunity to get involved in any other work ARE does?
Yes! We are always looking for young people to take part in our work to challenge race inequality across education, employment and criminal justice. You can volunteer to become a role-model for our flagship mentoring programme, Routes2Success, or register your interest for the next phase of our Leadership Development Programme.
I love how the role-model was able to change his life by doing something he is passionate about.
Heron Hall Academy, Student, 2020