– Andy Rance, Founder and Youth Work Coordinator, and Joe Day, Level 6 Integrated Degree Youth Work Apprentice, Livewire Youth Project.
Joe Day’s journey into youth work started when he walked through Livewire Youth Project’s doors at 14. The support and mentorship he received from his youth worker helped shape his future career choice and have led to where he is now – a Level 6 Youth Work Apprentice for the charity, at Plymouth Marjon University.
“When I started going to Livewire, I was looking for purpose and clarity to improve my mental health,” Joe reflected, “It helped me make friends and gave me someone I could confide in. I’m quite proud of the person I am, and I wouldn’t be that person without everything Livewire gave me.”
Livewire, based in Saltash, Cornwall, was set up by Andy Rance to empower young people through music, mentorship and creative support. Founder and Youth Work Coordinator, Andy, says the youth work apprenticeship presented an ideal way to plan for the future and ensure the organisation continues to thrive.
With decades of experience under his belt, Andy knew the importance of succession planning.
“Joe’s been through the process, he understands the music space, and he knows what support looks like. He’s the perfect person to continue the work we’ve done.”
The youth work apprenticeship allows Joe to apply what he’s learning in real time while being mentored by Andy.
“We get to reflect together on what’s worked, what hasn’t and brainstorm ways to do things better,” Joe explained “Being able to actually apply what I’m learning in the moment is the big difference.”
For Andy, the benefits of the apprenticeship extend beyond Joe’s learning, “It’s hands-on, it’s practical and it ensures that Livewire continues to deliver the support young people need,” he said, “We’ve already seen Joe’s impact – a young person struggling to make connections has started a band, made friends and improved their mental health through the work Joe’s done alongside them.”
Both see the apprenticeship as an investment in the future. Joe is gaining professional progression and practical skills, while Andy is safeguarding the sustainability of Livewire.
“It’s not just about me,” Andy said, “It’s about Joe, the future and the young people who come through our doors.”
Through the youth work apprenticeship Joe is stepping into a role that not only continues Livewire’s legacy but also nurtures the next generation of young people in Cornwall – just as Livewire once nurtured him.
