What the Friday Youth Podcast

Episode 9: Into Work Special pt2

In our second Into Work Special we look at whether the recruitment process is weighted against young people from minority groups and how to set up a business and be self employed.
Chloe spoke to Shauna who is Head of People Services from Kirklees Council to get a first-hand account of really happens when you apply for a job  
In our second interview Sienna talks to Jane who mentors people who are setting up their own business – to find out more about becoming self employed.
 
Here’s a list of helpful resources for young people looking to start a business or become self-employed in the UK:
The King’s Trust (formerly the Prince’s Trust)Offers support for 18 to 30-year-olds with business ideas, including training, mentoring, and help with writing business plans. Financial support is available in the form of low-interest loans.The King's Trust Website​  
AD:VENTURE provides ambitious new businesses in West Yorkshire with a tailored programme of support to help to them grow.
https://www.ad-venture.org.uk
Barclays LifeSkillsAimed at 16 to 25-year-olds, this platform provides resources to understand self-employment, including legal and tax considerations, and practical tips to get started.Barclays LifeSkills​
MoneyHelperGuides individuals on the essentials of starting a business, from registering with HMRC to managing finances and understanding insurance.MoneyHelper Website​
British Library Business & IP CentreFree access to market research reports, company data, intellectual property advice, and workshops at various locations in the UK.Business & IP Centre
Youth Business International (YBI)Offers mentoring, financial support, and technical training through a global network of partners, including UK-specific initiatives like Virgin StartUp and UnLtd for social entrepreneurs.Youth Business International​
Startups.co.ukA comprehensive guide on starting a business, covering business planning, funding, mentoring, and accelerator programs.Startups UK​
Gov.uk Business SupportA central hub for business support, including funding options, grants, and guidance tailored to new entrepreneurs.GOV.UK Business Support​
 
These resources provide advice, financial support, and practical tools to help you navigate the early stages of entrepreneurship.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 8: Into Work Special pt1

In our first Into Work Special we look at what you can do to add work experience to your CV and why it’s beneficial to take advantage of activities at your college or university.
Liam interviews Kelly from C+K Careers to find out what skills employers are looking for and hear her top tips for getting work experience.
In our second interview Alex interviews Graham from Youth Social to find out what opportunities are offered at college or university and how you can take advantage of them.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.

Episode 7: LGBTQ+ Takeover

For this week’s episode we are exploring the lived-experience of four LGBTQ+ teens and young adults.
They discuss four subjects:
Discovering you are gay
Coming out
Managing your mental health
How LGBTQ+ youth centres and safe spaces can help
So, whether you are figuring out your own sexuality or you would like to better understand the challenges that others face – we hope you enjoy this episode.  
 
If you would like to connect with The Brunswick Centre click here to find a list of useful contact numbers.
https://www.thebrunswickcentre.org.uk/services/youth-services
Special thanks to C+K and Brunswick Centre for their support in producing this podcast.
 
Here are some other organisations that offer support for young people:
Support & Community
The Trevor Projecthttps://www.thetrevorproject.orgProvides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. Their TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat services are available 24/7.
LGBT Foundation (UK)https://lgbt.foundationOffers a range of services, including helplines, mental health support, and youth-focused resources for LGBTQ+ people in the UK.
It Gets Better Projecthttps://itgetsbetter.orgThis project shares uplifting stories of LGBTQ+ people, providing inspiration and support through personal experiences.
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network)https://www.glsen.orgWorks to create safe and affirming schools for LGBTQ+ youth, with a focus on bullying prevention, teacher support, and educational resources.
Mental Health Resources
MindOut (UK)https://www.mindout.org.ukAn LGBTQ+ mental health service providing information, support, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, including an online chat service.
Q Chat Spacehttps://www.qchatspace.orgAn online community where LGBTQ+ teens can connect with each other and trained facilitators in a safe and confidential environment.
Switchboard (UK)https://switchboard.lgbtOffers a confidential helpline, chat, and email service providing support for LGBTQ+ issues, available to all ages but particularly helpful for youth.
Sexual Health & Education
Scarleteenhttps://www.scarleteen.comA youth-driven site offering inclusive sex education and advice, with articles, forums, and a safe place to ask questions about sexuality, relationships, and health.
LGBTQ+ Guide from Planned Parenthoodhttps://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/sexual-orientation-genderPlanned Parenthood provides resources on sexual orientation, gender identity, coming out, and navigating relationships as an LGBTQ+ person.
AVERThttps://www.avert.orgAVERT provides a range of information on LGBTQ+ health and sexual wellbeing, including advice on coming out, safe sex, and HIV awareness.
Educational and Advocacy Organisations
Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - Youth & Schoolshttps://www.hrc.org/resources/youth-schoolsOffers resources for LGBTQ+ youth and allies, focusing on LGBTQ+ rights, school policies, and advocacy.
Stonewall (UK)https://www.stonewall.org.ukOne of the largest LGBTQ+ rights organizations in the UK, Stonewall provides resources on a wide range of LGBTQ+ topics, including youth programs and school support.
OutRight Action Internationalhttps://outrightinternational.orgFocuses on human rights for LGBTQ+ individuals globally, including advocacy resources and reports on issues facing LGBTQ+ youth worldwide.
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 6: Moving out of home and Saving money

At some point we all need to find our own place to live – whether that is by choice or it is forced upon us.
But how do you go from living with family to having your own home?
To find out more we spoke to Natasha from the Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre to discuss available options and get some top tips for moving out.
Whether you’re going to university, want to move in with mates or at risk of being homeless – this is an essential listen.
 
A key part of having your own place is managing your money, and we have also invited Katie from Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre give us all some tips on saving and managing our money.
Here are some useful links from the episode:
Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre - Advice in Kirklees (local Kirklees office and how you can get advice - phone, web enquiry, drop in session)
Citizens Advice (public site useful to navigate a number of issues)
Home - Shelter England
Home - Fusion Housing
Housing and homelessness | Kirklees Council
Council housing: Apply for a council home - GOV.UK
What is social housing? - Shelter England
Work out your budget - Citizens Advice
 
 🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 5: Real life stories of care-experienced teens and young adults

This week we are shining a light on teens and young adults who have grown up in the care system. There are approximately 82,000 young people in the care system and each one of them has a unique story and has faced challenges that many can only imagine. 
In this episode Josh P, Josh H, Sophie, Matt, Odette and Louis give us a taste of what life is life in care. If you would like to hear longer versions of these interviews please use the links below or check out our sister podcast The Youth Social Podcast. 
Thank you to National Lottery Awards for All for funding this project and making it possible for young people in care to share their experienced.
https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/
 
Josh P: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/8rzrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/w6zrzz
 
Sophie:
Apple: http://tiny.cc/x6zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/z6zrzz
 
Matt: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/27zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/37zrzz
 
Odette: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/57zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/67zrzz
 
Josh H: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/77zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/d7zrzz
 
Louis: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/h7zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/j7zrzz
 
If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this podcast please talk to your PA or support worker. If you would like independent advice, here’s a list of relevant support services with weblinks that offer additional support to looked-after children and care-experienced teens and young adults:
 
The Care Leavers’ Association
A user-led charity that supports care leavers of all ages and promotes the rights of care-experienced individuals.
https://www.careleavers.com
 
The Children’s Society
The Children's Society provides support for vulnerable young people, including those who are looked after or have left care.
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk
 
Coram Voice
Coram Voice offers advocacy, advice, and support to children and young people in care or who have recently left care.
https://coramvoice.org.uk
 
National Care Advisory Service (NCAS)
NCAS is part of Catch22, offering advice and guidance for young people transitioning from care to independent living.
https://www.catch-22.org.uk/what-we-do/childrens-social-care/care-leavers/
 
Barnardo’s Care Leaver Services
Barnardo's provides services for care leavers to help them transition into independent living, education, or employment.
https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-young-people/leaving-care
 
Just for Kids Law
This organisation supports young people in care and care leavers with legal advice, advocacy, and support.
https://www.justforkidslaw.org
 
Special thanks to everyone who helped with this episode including the care teams at Kirklees Council and Calderdale Council. 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.
 
 
 
 
If you would like more youth-related podcast content, check out the What The Friday youth podcast:
 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BXIcHaznBB22boZhWLVMt?si=7db1508114594f00
 
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-the-friday-youth-podcast/id1684528663
 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YouthSocialCIC
 

Episode 4: Diagnosis TikTok and Good sexual health

In this episode of What The Friday, we dive into two key topics for teens and young adults: the importance of maintaining good sexual health and the risks of diagnosing health conditions through social media.
We are joined by Dr. Joy and Ellie a sexual health expert from Locala
We explore the reliability of online health advice, how to safely navigate good sexual health, and why speaking to professionals is crucial for proper care.
Listen in for honest conversations about social media, sexual health screenings, and breaking the stigma around these topics.
New episodes drop every Friday—subscribe now and stay informed!
Useful links: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala sexual health pages
https://www.locala.org.uk/services/sexual-health
NHS Sexual Health page
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 3: Writing positively about yourself and Choosing a university

What The Friday Podcast - Episode 3: Writing positively about yourself and Choosing a university
In this episode of What The Friday, we dive into the essential skills for writing personal statements, CVs, and job applications with the help of careers expert James Davidson from C+K and Brandon is joined by Gemma, a Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer from the University of Huddersfield, to discuss everything you need to know about choosing the right university. 
Whether you're embarrassed about promoting yourself or unsure how to make your CV stand out, we've got you covered. We’ll unpack actionable tips on overcoming the awkwardness of self-promotion, and crafting focused, impactful applications, Join us for a fun, insightful conversation that will help you highlight your strengths and ace your applications—plus a few laughs along the way!
Links to valuable resources:
C+K My Directions: https://ck.mydirections.co.uk
Your Hired! Standout CVs by Corinne Mills: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Youre-Hired-Standout-Corinne-Mills/dp/1912943867
Whether you're figuring out entry requirements, exploring course options, or considering financial and lifestyle factors, Gemma offers practical advice to help students make informed decisions. She also shares insights into assessing course quality, the importance of location, and what to look for in student life and career services.
Plus, learn why open days and talking to current students are key steps in the decision-making process, and don't forget to check out scholarships and bursaries that could make university more affordable.
Links to valuable resources:
Discover Uni https://discoveruni.gov.ukUniversity league tables https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankingsUniversity of Huddersfield open days: https://www.hud.ac.uk/open-days/undergraduate/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=pmax&utm_campaign=uoh-P2-openday-2024-25-rh&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADLY0105XD05d8q6Dr-c5EIMnPo2L&gclid=CjwKCAjw9p24BhB_EiwA8ID5BvrLOG1DRnpoCQ9fIenuDl_h9f3Xvf5A6XkxwUJUDeLZyjlbVMA1xxoCYKcQAvD_BwE
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

Episode 2: Struggling at College & Smoking Vs Vaping

What The Friday Podcast - Episode 2: Struggling at College & Smoking Vs Vaping
Welcome to the second episode of the What The Friday Podcast! 🎉 - yes we've made another one!
With Asher on other duties - we’re your hosts, Brandon, Verity, and Ben - and today we are discussing 'what to do if you are struggling at college' and a frank conversation about 'Smoking vs Vaping'.  
We've spoken to James Davidson from C+K who is a careers expert and works in sixth-form colleges and to Dr Joy who is a GP and works for Locala who provide health and care services in local communities. 
Links to valuable resources:
If you are struggling at college/university speak to your colleges's student support services - they are there to help you. 
If you have any questions about smoking or vaping visit your GP 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
If you would like help stopping or cutting down please visit
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking/nhs-stop-smoking-services-help-you-quit/
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

Episode 1: Mental Health Takeover

What The Friday Podcast - Episode 1: Mental Health Takeover 
Welcome to the first-ever episode of the What The Friday Podcast! 🎉 We’re your hosts, Brandon, Verity, Ben, and Asher, and we’re kicking things off with an important conversation that affects all of us—Mental Health. Whether you're on you’re on the bus, chilling at home, or out for a walk, we’re here to keep it real, break things down, and have some fun along the way!
In this episode, we dive into mental health with some amazing experts. 🧠💬 Brandon chats with Dr. Charlotte, a GP, who shares what to do if you’re struggling with your mental health, and Verity connects with Paul Ledger from Vita Health https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.uk to uncover how Talking Therapies can help manage stress, anxiety, and more.
✨ Key Takeaways:
How to get the help you need if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
The power of Talking Therapies and how they can change your life.
Loads of online resources to help you or a friend, like Kooth, Mind, and Young Minds.
Links to valuable resources:
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
VitaMinds Calderdale VitaMinds Calderdale – NHS Improving Access To Psychological Therapies (IAPT)
Kooth https://www.kooth.com
Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/how-to-get-help-and-support/useful-contacts/
The Royal College of Psychiatrists https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk
Vita Healthgroup https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.uk
Young Minds https://www.youngminds.org.uk
Open Minds 16-25 Mental Health Support in Calderdale (including details of self referral) http://www.openmindscalderdale.org.uk/mental-health-support-16-to-25/#:~:text=They%20are%20our%20local%20NHS,in%20and%20live%20in%20Calderdale.&text=Contact%20details%3A%200333%200153%20494,%2DFri%2C%208am%20–%208pm.
Find an NHS Talking Therapies service in your area https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-nhs-talking-therapies-service
 
So hit play, and join us as we explore the world of mental health in a way that's easy to understand and full of helpful tips.
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

What The Friday Youth Podcast - Trailer

The is a trailer for the What The Friday Youth Podcast - made by young people for young people.