Electricity firm, UK Power Networks, has brought back its award-winning ‘Power Among Us’ programme to help young people find employment.
The programme’s first-ever edition in 2023 proved to be a resounding success in providing work experience and skills-building opportunities for individuals who are not in employment, education, or training (NEETs).
This year, seven individuals from across Surrey and Kent have been selected to work with the company in Croydon, Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury, and Strood.
Intern, Osarenmwinda Ehiosu, aged 18, who worked in the Croydon depot, says, “Over the past four weeks, my confidence and self-esteem has grown and, as a result, this has impacted my communication skills, my communication and my interpersonal skills has improved as well as my ability to think critically.
“I can apply this to wherever I go, being able to show myself and not be that shy, introverted person, but be that bold and courageous person that can make connections and build relationships.”
The month-long internship is designed to support them to develop their employability and work skills, with the added benefit of two weeks of practical work experience with operational engineer teams.
This programme is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to ‘Levelling Up’ and its vision to be a Respected Corporate Citizen and an Employer of Choice. In response to the cost-of-living crisis and UK unemployment, the ‘Power Among Us’ programme offers unique access for young people who might never have considered a career in energy before.
Last year’s programme won the ‘Best ESG Strategy’ at the HR Excellence Awards.
Working in conjunction with youth groups, job centres and charities, the firm’s Learning and Development team gave seven individuals the new opportunity. The company also covered travel expenses, lunches, personal protective equipment, and all learning materials to remove any obstacles to success.
What did the interns do?
• Sessions on team building, effective communication, safety, and first aid.
• Roundtable discussion with the Rt Hon Justine Greening and previous participants, as well as representatives from recruiting organisations, to explore employment barriers and personal experiences.
• Spent time with South East operational teams, gaining insight into the roles of field staff and experiencing office routines.
Natasha Paramasamy, the firm’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) outreach and development specialist, says, “I’m thrilled that we can continue this programme, expanding access across our Southern patch and consistently providing opportunities. This year’s cohort have once again been exceptional and open-minded to opportunities. Their presentations to our directors showcased the tremendous effort they invested during the programme.”
Rt Hon Justine Greening adds, “It was a pleasure speaking with the latest cohort. UK Power Networks’ programme is a powerful example of how employers can create meaningful opportunities tailored to individual needs, helping individuals not only enter the workforce but importantly thrive within it. From employability skills to hands-on experience, the programme ensures participants are ready to take the next steps in their employment journey. I’m proud to see UK Power Networks breaking down barriers for those furthest removed from opportunity through this programme and look forward to seeing its continued success.”
Director of Network Operations, Patrick Clarke, concludes, “The Power Among Us programme showed us that when we challenge the traditional methods of recruitment, we can source skilled and talented individuals from more diverse backgrounds, which this industry is sorely missing. I’m thrilled that the programme has returned and have been impressed by their eagerness to get involved in the business and industry.”
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