Secretary of State joins Mayor to open new Peterborough Youth Hub helping young people into work 

Secretary of State joins Mayor to open new Peterborough Youth Hub helping young people into work 

A major new Youth Hub has officially opened in Peterborough, marking a significant step in supporting young people into work, training and further education across the region. 

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, the Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP, joined Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Paul Bristow for the official launch on Thursday 6th November at Peterborough United’s Weston Homes Stadium – home of the new hub. 

Developed by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (Combined Authority) in partnership with Peterborough United Foundation, EFL in the Community, Jobcentre Plus, and local youth organisations, the hub brings together employment, skills, and wellbeing services under one roof. 

It offers young people aged 16–24 a welcoming space to access tailored careers advice, job-matching, CV support, skills training, and wellbeing guidance – all designed to help them take the next step towards their future. 

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Paul Bristow said: “We want every young person in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to have access to the opportunities, support and confidence they need to succeed. This hub is about making sure no young person feels left behind – it’s about opening doors to jobs, training, and brighter futures.” 

Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden said: “Nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training represents a generation at risk of being left behind. We cannot accept this as inevitable. 

“Peterborough is leading the way with its new Youth Hub, providing the wraparound support that helps young people build confidence and take the next step in their career. 

“This is a great example of local and national government working together to deliver real change, as we drive forward with our wider commitment to ensure every 18-21-year-old has a genuine opportunity to earn or learn.” 

The launch event brought together representatives from local youth organisations, local businesses and training providers, alongside members of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Youth Forum, who are helping shape the region’s new Youth Guarantee Trailblazer Programme. 

Debbie Cook, EFL’s Director of Community said: “From employment, mentoring and education programmes to sport and wellbeing initiatives, EFL Football Clubs and their charities are deeply embedded in their communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and thrive. During the EFL’s Week of Action, we are delighted to see the opening of the youth hub at Peterborough United in partnership with Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, that will maximise the opportunities for young people in the area.”  

The Youth Forum gives 16–25 year-olds with lived experience of being out of work or education a direct voice in influencing how support is designed and delivered. Their input will be central as the Combined Authority continues to develop new approaches to tackling youth unemployment and ensuring every young person has a pathway to meaningful work or training. 

Gill Wignall, CEO of Peterborough United Foundation, said: “We’re proud to host the Youth Employment Hub at the stadium. This partnership means young people can come to a familiar and supportive place to find the help they need – whether that’s career advice, training opportunities, or wellbeing support.” 

The Peterborough Youth Employment Hub is open to anyone aged 16–24 looking for guidance or opportunities. Young people can drop in or contact the hub directly for more information. 

Image features: Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP (left), Dawn Gore, PUFC CEX (middle) and Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough (right)