Focus of work
Futurechangers aimed to increase the diversity of those involved with environmental activism. Young people who might not otherwise consider a career in campaigning, but are more likely to be impacted by the effects of climate change, were introduced to the subject of car dependency and the costs felt by people, the city and the environment.
The cohort received training in six sessions over six months. They were guided in creating their own campaigns, culminating in a paid work placement at an environmental charity.
Impact
The programme received very positive feedback from all employers and the cohort, with some young people going on to work in mainstream campaigning following the programme. One employer said that the programme helped them to further develop their diversity, equity and inclusion policies. Conversely, the programme revealed that many organisations were supportive of the principal but not ultimately willing to commit to a placement, suggesting there is much more work to be done.