As employment and qualification levels continue to rise locally, one young person’s story highlights the difference local support services can make in helping residents move forward.
For 19-year-old Evie Benson, known as ‘V’, that next step has been securing a job with a local company.
After being supported by her Work Coach at Grimsby Jobcentre Plus, V was encouraged to visit the Youth Hub at the Careers Café in Freshney Place. It was there that she met the council’s Adult Careers Team, who encouraged her to take part in their free programme – careerShift BOOST.
These sessions help 18 to 24-year-olds build confidence, develop their skills and get ready for work. For V, the support helped her improve her CV, prepare for interviews and build the confidence to take the next step.
She said: “I’d 100% recommend the Careers Café and careerShift BOOST to anyone my age who’s looking for work. The team are so welcoming and make you feel comfortable asking questions, no matter how big or small.
“It never felt pressured, and they took the time to explain things properly. The support I received helped me take the next step and secure a job, and I’m really grateful for everything they did.”
V credits Lorraine – one of the advisors – in particular for her support, recalling how she stayed behind after sessions to help her prepare for her interview.
Her experience is one example of what is happening across North East Lincolnshire, as more residents gain skills and qualifications and move closer to employment.
The latest figures show the proportion of residents aged 16 to 64 with no qualifications has fallen from 12.2% to 9.3%, while qualifications have risen at all levels, helping to reduce the gap with the national average for the first time. This links closely with employment levels, which have also increased since 2021 here in North East Lincolnshire.
Supporting this progress is a network of local services, employers and partners helping residents find opportunities and overcome barriers, including ones like the Careers Cafe. Opened in October 2025 through a joint initiative between TARGET NEL CIC and North East Lincolnshire Council’s Adults Careers Team, the café has supported more than 1,450 people with support including CVs, job search and applications, training and overcoming barriers to getting into work.
Councillor Samuel Grice, Deputy Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council and Portfolio Holder for Education and Skills, said: “These figures show real progress for North East Lincolnshire, but they are about much more than numbers. They represent local people gaining new skills, building confidence and creating better opportunities for their future.
“There is still more to do, but I want to thank our residents, staff, employers, schools, training providers and partners for the part they are playing in helping North East Lincolnshire move forward.”
If you are looking for support with finding work, training or developing your skills, the Careers Café is open throughout the week in Freshney Place, next to Trespass.
For general careers advice and support, email North East Lincolnshire Council’s Adult Careers Team at iag-nel@nelincs.gov.uk.
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