Employers in Crawley are being invited to join the Breakthrough 2026 programme, a work placement scheme that connects local organisations with talented young people aged 18 to 25. The initiative, run by the charity Artswork, offers six-month paid placements in the creative industries from 28 September 2026 to 26 March 2027.
The programme aims to help young people find meaningful employment, with a specific focus on supporting those who are neurodivergent, disabled, or from backgrounds underrepresented in the creative sector. To assist with the process, Artswork provides hands-on support for both the trainee and the employer, including help with job role design, matching candidates to organisations, and providing check-ins throughout the placement.
Small and medium-sized businesses can access subsidised fees for the programme through a tiered investment model supported by Arts Council England. Participating employers are asked to contribute 20, 30, 40 or 100 percent of the living wage for 25 hours of work per week, alongside a 1,500 pound contribution towards training fees.
Creative Crawley, a local arts organisation, is actively encouraging other businesses in the area to participate after hosting two successful placements themselves. According to data from the 2024 iteration of the programme, 91 percent of employers reported measurable benefits, and all participating organisations said they would recommend the scheme to others.
Interested employers must submit an expression of interest by 18 May 2026.
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