Connexions Cumbria is committed to developing the Children and Young People's Workforce.

We have a culture of Continued Professional Development, investing time and money in helping staff to develop their skills knowledge and expertise to provide a first class service to young people

• We invest 5% of the overall Company budget in training and development opportunities for Employees.
• We provided 83% of the workforce with training, which has led to nationally accredited qualifications.
• We provide the entire workforce with additional skills training.
• £50 per year is made available to every employee towards additional personal and professional development opportunities.
• We work in partnership to deliver accredited multi agency training leading to professional qualifications for working with children and young people.
• Established and ran a joint multi agency NVQ 4 LDSS course, helping to develop the children's workforce
• We have established a ‘buddy' system for new employers
• Supported a full Management training and development programme
• Implemented a change management programme to support all staff through the change process

Much of the in-house training organised contributes to individual's continuous professional development. Staff are able to enhance existing skills and knowledge and develop new skill areas in order to keep up to date and provide a professional service to young people. This is evident in the excellent work we have achieved in reducing the number of young people who are not in Education Employment or Training (NEET).

Since 2002 the percentage of young people NEET has reduced by 31%. In that time Connexions Cumbria has helped over 35,000 young people access Education, Employment and Training opportunities

This philosophy is extended to the Connexions Cumbria workforce who provides a first class service to young people in Cumbria. By investing in training and development we can be sure to provide young people with access to fully trained, professional staff helping them make the right choices in life.