East Coast College to Deliver NHS Widening Access Demonstrator Fund Programme in Felixstowe and Great Yarmouth

26/08/2026

East Coast College has been selected to deliver a new programme funded through the Widening Access Demonstrator Fund, supporting young people aged 18 to 25 who are currently Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) to access rewarding careers within the NHS and social care sectors.

The initiative will be delivered in both Felixstowe and Great Yarmouth, providing tailored training, employability support and personalised job coaching designed to help participants overcome barriers and move successfully into employment.

A key feature of the programme is the provision of personalised one-to-one job coaching. Each participant will receive tailored, person-centred support based on their individual circumstances, aspirations and career goals. This approach will help young people build confidence, overcome barriers to employment and secure the best possible outcomes as they progress towards sustainable careers.

East Coast College brings significant experience to the programme through its successful delivery of the Apollo Project, which has been delivered in partnership with organisations across Norfolk and Suffolk. Through this collaborative approach, the College has supported hundreds of individuals on their journey to employment, with more than 700 people successfully securing jobs. The lessons learned and expertise developed through the Apollo Project will help ensure participants in the Widening Access Demonstrator Fund programme receive high-quality support that leads to meaningful employment opportunities.

By working closely with employers and partners across the Health and Care sectors, East Coast College aims to create clear pathways into employment while helping to address workforce needs within local NHS and social care services.

Laura Goodman, Apollo Stakeholder at East Coast College, said:
“We are delightful to be delivering this important programme across Felixstowe and Great Yarmouth. The Widening Access Demonstrator Fund presents a fantastic opportunity to support young people who may face barriers to employment and help them access fulfilling careers within the NHS and social care sectors.
Our experience delivering the Apollo Project across Norfolk and Suffolk has demonstrated the positive impact that personalised support, strong partnerships and targeted employability progammes can have, with over 700 individuals progressing into employment. We look forward to building on that success, providing participants with high-quality training and one-to-one coaching that enables them to achieve their career ambitions.”
The programme reflects East Coast College’s continued commitment to developing local talent, supporting communities and creating pathways into employment across Norfolk and Suffolk. Young people aged 18 to 25 who are interested in joining the programme and receiving support to access careers within the NHS and social care sectors are encouraged to get in touch. Employers who would like to support participants through work experience, placements, recruitment opportunities or sector insight are also invited to contact the team.

To find out more or register your interest, please contact apollo@eastcoast.ac.uk