Local young people recently enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about developing their own business at an event facilitated by Opportunity Goole, which is funded by Goole Town Deal.

Held at The Moorlands Community Centre in Goole, the informative session was supported by Making Changes For Careers, an exciting Hull-based enterprise programme with experience of, and success in, supporting young people to start their own businesses and realise their entrepreneurial ambitions.

Around ten young people attended the event to hear Charlene Porteous of Making Changes For Careers (MC4C) speak about the type of skills and knowledge needed to get their business ideas off the ground. Charlene was accompanied by two young people who have already benefited from MC4C’s help and were able to chat to those who attended about their own experiences.

Joe Hodgson, Promotions Co-ordinator for Opportunity Goole, said: “Within the session, the young people discussed some facts and figures about business in the UK, notably how around 96 per cent are micro-businesses with between one and nine employees. They also explored business plans and discussed some ideas for potential new businesses. It was fantastic to hear about the young people’s business ideas, and I think they found the insights from MC4C really helpful in terms of understanding how to take their first steps towards turning their ideas into a reality.”

Charlene Porteous, Youth Enterprise and Micro Business Advisor said: “Delivering the ‘Be Your Own Boss’ workshop at Moorlands Community Centre was a fantastic opportunity to introduce young people in Goole to our MC4C programme. The session included a detailed presentation and interactive activities to spark their interest in enterprise and self-employment.

“Two of our current participants attended with me and shared their own experiences, discussing the support they have received through MC4C, which really helped bring the programme to life for the group. While there was so much information to share, it was a valuable session overall, and we’re excited to keep building on this work and promote MC4C in Goole and other areas.”

Based within Goole Library on Carlisle Street in the town centre, Opportunity Goole provides easy access to information about local job opportunities, training provision, business support and more to anyone over the age of 16 years, regardless of whether they’re employed, unemployed or retired. For more information or to arrange an appointment with the team, click here.

Making Changes for Careers (MC4C) supports support people aged 16 to 29 years across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire. For more information, click here.