Thriving communities: Helping tackle unemployment

First Bus has teamed up with Hunslet Rugby Foundation (HRF) to support the parents of children participating in junior rugby with an outreach programme to help end unemployment or get back into work after a break from raising a family.

The bus operator is providing workshops at HRF’s premises in the Belle Isle Welcome Centre to develop employability skills and build confidence, including interview technique and  CV writing. The potential to offer work experience placements and apprenticeships at First Bus depots is also planned.

The Foundation is chaired by Father Chris Buckley from the nearby St John’s and St Barnaby’s Church and works across south Leeds, providing youth clubs, breakfast clubs and a growing junior rugby programme, to encourage people to discover their potential and play an active role in their community.

Hunslet Rugby Foundation is among a group of social value projects involving young people, disadvantaged communities, women and girls and education that First Bus is partnering with to support objectives in life skills, careers and youth opportunities, crime prevention and safety.