Ensuring young people can access opportunities, skills and guidance close to home is essential for building a thriving community and supporting the next generation of local talent.

A Free Initiative

For many young people, leaving school or college can be an uncertain time. Whether they're looking for work, considering an apprenticeship, exploring further education or simply unsure about their next move, support is available through the Think Futures Programme, a free initiative helping young people across the Horsham District build confidence, skills and career opportunities.

What is Think Futures?

Think Futures is a specialist employment and careers support programme for young people aged 16 to 25 who are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET). The programme is delivered by the Careers Team at West Sussex County Council, working in partnership with Horsham District Council.

The service is designed to provide practical, one-to-one support, helping young people overcome barriers and move towards employment, apprenticeships, college courses or training opportunities. Particular attention is given to supporting vulnerable young people who may need additional guidance or encouragement.

What Help is Available?

Participants receive personalised support from qualified careers advisers, including:

• Independent careers information, advice and guidance
• Help identifying suitable education and training opportunities
• Support with college and apprenticeship applications
• CV writing and reviews
• Interview preparation and confidence building
• Job search support
• Guidance on employment opportunities and career pathways

Every young person receives tailored support based on their circumstances, ambitions and individual needs.

Real Results for Young People

The programme has already demonstrated significant success locally.

In 2024 alone, Think Futures supported more than 75 young people in the Horsham District.

More recently, Horsham District Council reported that over 150 young people had been supported across the previous two years, with more than half moving into sustained employment, education or training.

Case Study

One young person featured by Horsham District Council had struggled after failing college exams and faced uncertainty about future study options. Through Think Futures, they received personalised careers advice, guidance on alternative educational routes and support identifying their learning needs. As a result, they successfully secured a place studying Engineering at another local college and continued progressing towards their long-term ambitions.

How Long Has the Programme Been Running?

Think Futures was launched in 2024 with funding from the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund. Following its early success, Horsham District Council secured additional funding to extend the programme for a further year in 2025.

The programme was extended again in 2026 following further funding support, reflecting the positive outcomes achieved for local young people.

Who Is Involved?

Think Futures is delivered through a partnership involving:

• West Sussex County Council Careers Team
• Horsham District Council
• Funding support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (during the initial years)
• Education providers, colleges, apprenticeship organisations and employers who help young people move into learning and employment opportunities.

Careers advisers work directly with participants to connect them with suitable training, education and job opportunities available across West Sussex and beyond.

How Can Young People Access the Programme?

Young people can refer themselves directly to Think Futures. Parents, carers and guardians can also make referrals, provided the young person agrees to be contacted and participation remains voluntary.

For more information or to access support:

Email: careersadvice@westsussex.gov.uk
Telephone: 0330 222 2700

Further information is also available through Horsham District Council's employment support webpages.

Why It Matters for Pulborough

For young residents in Pulborough and surrounding villages, access to careers advice and employment support can make a significant difference at a crucial stage of life. Whether someone is struggling to find work, unsure about education options or looking for an apprenticeship, Think Futures offers free, personalised support to help them take the next step with confidence.

With more than 150 local young people already supported and many progressing into employment, education or training, the programme is proving to be an important investment in the future of young people across the Horsham District.