The successful Digital Leap programme – which supports young people to access jobs in the digital and tech sectors – is set to expand, as Catch22 and Salesforce extend their partnership.
Operating in London and now expanding to Manchester, the programme provides a pre-employability training package and identifies individuals’ current skill levels, strengths, and career goals. It gives people facing barriers to work – whether due to gender, health status, or the fact that they’re care leavers or single parents – a chance to gain valuable experience in digital careers.
Director of Partnerships at Catch22, Kat Dixon, said:
“Catch22’s partnership with Salesforce means we can reimagine pathways into digital careers. Together, we’ve empowered people into apprenticeships and new jobs, inspiring them with role models, creating work experience opportunities and equipping them with digital skills for life.”
167 participants have completed the programme, with 62 having progressed into employment or apprenticeships.
One programme participant commented:
“I have learnt so much from the programme. It kept me busy and highlighted the many skills that I do have. I am much more confident and eternally grateful for the opportunity to be on the programme. I would encourage anyone in a similar position to sign up!”
As well as the programme itself, last year Catch22 worked Salesforce and Movement to Work to offer two weeks of work experience to people facing barriers to work. Candidates joined Salesforce to learn about jobs in tech, both in Salesforce and in the Salesforce ecosystem. Candidates were also given the opportunity to identify the careers they wanted to pursue, and work on a career pathway to move into long-term work.
Participants, who took part found it incredibly useful, said:
“It’s nice to know that there is someone there to listen and understand you and to give me help when needed. I appreciate the whole programme. The support went very hand in hand to help prepare me for my apprenticeship interview. I officially started my Data apprenticeship in November.”
– Jamal
“I like how Salesforce introduced their company, how they talk us through the different department and what Salesforce offers. My [Catch22] coach put me forward for the Salesforce Work Experience, and I attended each session and Salesforce have kindly given me a mentor. They are helping me apply for UX design roles.”
– Shreena