In Sheffield the Connexions Service combines the work of the careers and youth services within a single organisation. In this respect it is unique - no other major city in England currently has this level of provision. Bringing these services together in this way means that Sheffield Futures is one of the largest contributors to the Connexions Services in the country as well as making it the driving force for the development of the service in Sheffield.

Careers Advice:
The careers advice and guidance offered under Connexions is a personal and confidential service. Careers Advice and guidance is delivered in schools, colleges and the community. It provides:

• Advice and information about the educational and vocational choices available to young people.
• Support at all stages of their decision making.

Through Connexions young people can also get advice on:

• Job seeking.
• Details of local and national job or training vacancies. The Opportunities bulletin details vacancy details for young people.
• The Connexions Centre at Star House is a major resource to the community offering an excellent range of information and access to many websites and computer programs.

Youth Work:
Working with young people, Connexions aims to support them in the transition from childhood to adulthood, especially those most in need and to enhance their achievement and life chances.
Youth work is usually provided by Connexions Centres and the community. Youth work within the Connexions Service in Sheffield has three particular aims:

• To promote the voice and influence of young people in the life of the city.
• To raise young people's achievements through developing their talents, lifting their aspirations and removing barriers to learning.
• To increase young people's capacity to contribute to their communities.

Connexions Centres provide a range of opportunities which might include:

• A youth club where young people can  meet, socialise and take part in a range of activities.
• Opportunites for learning, such as music workshops or arts sessions.
• Drug and sex education alongside other personal and health education.
• Specialist projects including work with girls and young women and work with African-Caribbean young people.

Working closely with young people across the Connexions Service are teams of Personal Advisors. They co-ordinate the support available to the young person and act as advocates on their behalf with the educational and other service providers.

For help and advice contact:
Freephone helpline: 0800 652 9900
Visit the Connexions Centre:
Star House
43 Division Street
Sheffield
S1 4SL

Visit the Connexions in Sheffield website.