Tackling youth unemployment with an innovative digital training programme
Recent unemployment figures have painted a sombre picture of the UK’s employment landscape, with nearly a million young people across the country not in employment, education or training (ONS, 2025). In a country filled to the brim with hundreds of thousands of bright, motivated and eager to learn young people, this figure betrays an uncomfortable truth - there are simply not enough opportunities for this drive and creativity to be harnessed and given space to grow.
As AI work automation increases, the uniquely human traits of empathy, creativity and emotional intelligence are skills which leaders across a range of sectors are increasingly looking for in potential candidates (WEF, 2025). Our 3 month ‘Trainmi’ programme is giving young people looking to develop these essential skills an outlet. By training as SuperPeers and ensuring that every user receives a reply within 24 hours they can begin to both cultivate competencies and put them into action. The potential for our scheme to help develop key transferable skills is encapsulated a recent graduate testimonial:
“Trainmi has not only helped me gain experience in what I want to do but helped me gain more confidence. Being able to help people is what I want to do in life thanks to the Tellmi team for the opportunities this has brought for me.”
It is clear that the skills gained throughout Trainmi are essential for work in social care and helping professions as per their career goals. However the ability to react sensitively and empathically to challenges in real time is extremely applicable to any person-centred or collaborative role: recent Trainmi graduates have already gone on to find work, volunteering opportunities or training courses!
After signing up to the initial information session, trainees complete two online training sessions. This gives them an opportunity to meet other trainees, ask questions and understand the programme.
The training covered topics including:
Developing digital skills and ensuring comprehension of the platforms used throughout
Understanding and developing the skills of empathy and sensitivity
Outlining the standards and levels of professionalism expected
Detailing key self care methods essential to working from home safely
A key aspect of the training is exploring and understanding how to use the ‘CHIME framework (Connection, Hope & Optimism, Identity, Meaning in Life and Empowerment)’ to engage with posts which might be potentially more difficult to respond to. As a peer support community we place the highest priority on using lived experience as a way to guide, encourage and support, but the training ensures that interns are equipped with the tools to confidently provide support for all sorts of issues.
Throughout their placements trainees receive regular support and 1 to 1 feedback from their project leader. After completing the course, successful graduates receive a Trainmi certificate and where appropriate, a personal endorsement for LinkedIn and a personal reference for opportunities going forward.
If you would like to find out if Trainmi is available in your local area for you or someone you know, reach out to us now info@tellmi.help