SPEAR

Are you 16-24 and looking for work?

The Spear Programme could be for you!

We believe that each young person in Preston has huge potential, no matter what barriers to employment they face. Through Spear, we coach trainees with the mindset and skills they need to both get into work and thrive once they’re there.

WHAT IS SPEAR?

The Spear Programme is designed for young people, 16 to 24-years-old, who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Spear is a free, four-week training programme, followed by 6-12 months of coaching support, which helps young people get into sustained work or education. We provide professional-level coaching to build confidence, increase motivation, challenge mindsets and equip you with the vital skills needed to succeed in long-term employment.

Spear sessions provide young people with:
• increased confidence
• a fun and friendly community
• an impressive CV and cover letter
• interview training and practice
• job and training opportunities

Over 75% of those who complete the Spear Programme get into work or further training and are still there a year later.

IS SPEAR FOR ME?

Are you currently out of work, training or education? Maybe you’re struggling with low confidence, mental health issues, no qualifications, have lived in care at some point or have a criminal record? Then Spear is for you!

If you’re thinking about joining Spear, our coaches would love to hear from you to chat through any questions you have.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Complete the short form below to refer yourself to Spear. Alternatively, you can email us at spear@prestonminster.org or call or text the Spear mobile number: 07762 455 782.

The next Spear courses are:

Tuesday 13 May, 2025 (Celebration* Thursday 5 June, 6:30pm)

Tuesday 1 July, 2025 (Celebration* Tuesday 22 July, 6:30pm)

*Spear Celebrations mark the end of the four-week course and are open to anyone from our church community to attend, as well as the friends and family of the trainees. There's nothing quite like the Celebration for understanding what we do and why.

GET INVOLVED

  1. Attend a celebration Spear Celebration marks the end of the four-week programme. Over the evening, you can hear stories of transformation, meet our young people and help their friends and family celebrate their achievements. Let us know you’re coming to a celebration here.

  2. Volunteer Volunteer Coaches play a vital role in the Spear programme. Some of the ways you can get involved include Mock interviews, Career panels, Job application workshops and more. Email us here.

  3. Give Would you consider making a regular or one-off gift to Spear Preston? Because of you, more young people will receive the support they need to thrive. You can donate here.

  4. Refer a young person Do you know a 16–24-year-old who could benefit from the programme? Get in touch.

HOW IS SPEAR FUNDED?

Spear Preston is charitably funded by the generosity of individuals, trusts and local businesses. Thank you to everyone whose partnership enables Spear Preston to continue supporting young people in our city who need it most. Every donation made towards Spear Preston is restricted to this project alone. Funders this year include:

  • The Harris Charity

  • The William Wilding Galloway Trust

  • The Lancaster Foundation

  • The Shepherd Street Trust

  • The Souter Charitable Trust

  • The Garfield Weston Foundation

If you are interesting in financially supporting Spear Preston or would like to know more about our impact, please contact us here.