Rise2Thrive & Trailblazer
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Mayoral Combined Authority through the Economic Inactivity Trailblazer, Rise2Thrive and Trailblazer are two complementary employability support programmes delivered through a unified, collaborative partnership.
These partnership programmes are designed for adults in York and North Yorkshire who are economically inactive and facing barriers to engaging with employment and training opportunities, or those in employment and facing significant barriers to career progression.
Through the programmes, individuals receive tailored 1-2-1 advice, mentoring and employability support, and have access to specific interventions designed to help tackle their barriers.
This combination of support is designed to improve people’s health, confidence, skills, circumstances and ultimately their employability, moving them closer towards a position where they are thriving in their life and in work.
Whilst the Rise2Thrive focuses on supporting those both inside and outside of work, the Trailblazer exclusively offers enhanced support to key cohorts of economically inactive people, with a specific focus on supporting:
- 16-24yr olds
- 50-64yr olds
- Individuals experiencing long term sickness
- Rural and coastal inactive communities
Rise2Thrive and Trailblazer run from May 2025 through until March 2026.
Project: WILD C.I.C. Involvement
Project: WILD C.I.C. is participating in Rise2Thrive as an intervention partner – scroll down the page to read more about our amazing opportunities! You can refer your participants via this form.
For Trailblazer, we are excited to be participating as a keyworker organisation. We are focusing specifically on helping young people aged 16-24 in Selby and surrounding areas who are keen on nature, wildlife, and being outdoors, but might not be working right now. We understand that a lack of awareness regarding job prospects in these sectors can lead to demotivation.
Therefore, we will utilise our established relationships with secondary schools, colleges, and the Job Centre, as well as internal referrals from our Environmental Leadership Programme, to identify and support individuals at risk of long-term economic inactivity. If you would like to refer your client to our Trailblazer programme, please email the Project Administrator at ad***@************ic.com.
The intervention services we offer are:
Introduction to Ecology (Skills Development)
Unlock the wonders of the natural world with our engaging 1 or 2-day non-accredited skills training programme. This course offers an accessible introduction to biodiversity, ecological principles, practical field skills, and exciting potential career pathways within the environmental sector. Ideal for intimate groups of three to eight participants, the programme thoughtfully combines informative classroom sessions with hands-on field exploration.
This course is a valuable steppingstone for individuals curious about careers in ecology, horticulture, or other rewarding outdoor professions. Furthermore, it can broaden perspectives for those further from the job market by showcasing a diverse range of often-overlooked career possibilities. Participants will acquire practical skills applicable to volunteering and working with conservation organisations and will be guided towards further training and volunteering opportunities. For groups in Scarborough or those willing to travel to the coast, we can provide a specially adapted session focused on the coastal environment, offering a unique perspective compared to our usual meadow and woodland settings.
Supported Volunteering (Skills Development)
Embark on a rewarding journey of personal and professional growth with our Supported Volunteering programme, offering 10-20 hours of tailored engagement. We offer diverse roles to match individual interests and needs, including opportunities as a Film Production Volunteer, Office and Research Volunteer, and Animal Care Volunteer. Our programme is designed to help you cultivate new skills, expand your career awareness, and foster a strong sense of accomplishment and support. We encourage our volunteers to establish a positive routine and develop valuable time management skills through their participation.
WILD Wellbeing
Discover a path to inner peace and a deeper connection with the natural world through our WILD Wellbeing sessions. Designed for five to ten participants, these sessions blend gentle yoga, soothing guided meditation, mindful practices, and exploration of our intrinsic link to nature. Held within the tranquility of rural green spaces, they offer a precious opportunity to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and encourage personal reflection.
Participants will gain valuable, practical tools to enhance their daily wellbeing and develop a richer understanding of the biological processes that influence our emotional landscape. These adaptable sessions are thoughtfully tailored to the specific needs and desired outcomes of each group. We typically offer these enriching experiences on weekends.
Bushcraft (Health and Wellbeing)
Embark on a rejuvenating 1 or 2-day bushcraft experience designed for small groups of five to eight participants. Immerse yourselves in the natural world through engaging activities such as essential survival skills instruction, collaborative shelter building, mindful foraging, the rewarding art of fire lighting, delightful campfire cooking, insightful animal identification, the mindful craft of whittling, and the engaging challenge of archery. Our sessions are held in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere, fostering connection and learning.
For groups in Scarborough or those willing to journey to the coast, we offer a unique session tailored to the coastal environment, a refreshing alternative to our traditional woodland immersion. These experiences naturally cultivate teamwork while providing a welcome escape from the pressures of daily life. Imagine a day spent around a crackling campfire, working together to create a delicious meal, and deepening your bond with nature – leaving everyone feeling more tranquil, mentally refreshed, and invigorated.
Orienteering (Skills Development)
Experience the thrill of an “escape room without walls!” New for 2025/26, this full-day outdoor team activity invites you to embrace problem-solving while navigating the beauty of a lowland environment. While a basic level of fitness is helpful, the intensity will be carefully adjusted to ensure everyone can participate and enjoy the adventure.
Beyond the practical skills of orienteering, survival awareness, and navigation, participants will cultivate essential team skills such as clear communication, effective leadership, mutual trust, open honesty, active listening, and constructive conflict resolution. Participants can expect to leave feeling more self-assured and empowered in their ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
Find out more!
If you have any questions, or require further information, please contact our Project Administrator on *****@************ic.com“>ad***@************ic.com