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New Elevate Pathways programme opens doors to employment for young people across Doncaster

19 August 2026

We’re delighted to share that Club Doncaster Foundation has launched a brand-new employment-focused project, Elevate Pathways, giving young people across Doncaster a unique opportunity to explore the world of work and take positive steps towards their future careers.

Working in collaboration with the Advanced Employment Hub and employers across Doncaster, Elevate Pathways is designed to support young people aged 16 - 24 to develop the skills, confidence and experience they need as they take their next steps towards employment.

The programme takes a holistic approach to employment support, with participants also receiving support around their physical and mental health and wellbeing. By addressing some of the wider barriers that can make entering work difficult, the programme aims to give young people the strongest possible foundations to thrive in employment.

Officially launched during the recent Doncaster Rovers pre-season fixture against Wolves, Elevate Pathways will work with young people across the city who may need additional direction and support as they consider their futures. Through the programme, participants will have the opportunity to explore different career pathways, engage with employers and develop a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them.

Ben Howe, Employability & Health Officer at Club Doncaster Foundation, is leading the employment initiative. He said: “The launch of Elevate Pathways is an exciting development at the Foundation and a fantastic opportunity for young people across Doncaster to build their confidence, develop new skills and engage directly with employers.

“For some young people, finding the right route into work can feel difficult. Whether they are unsure about their next step, lack confidence or need support to understand the opportunities available to them, Elevate Pathways aims to provide a clear route forward.

“What makes the programme particularly exciting is the opportunity to bring young people and employers closer together. By helping participants understand different industries and what employers are looking for, we can give them the tools and confidence to take that next step.

“At the same time, it provides local businesses with an opportunity to engage with emerging talent and play an important role in supporting the future workforce here in Doncaster.

“Ultimately, we want Elevate Pathways to make a real difference to young people across our city, helping them recognise their potential and move closer to sustainable employment.”

Charlotte Lister, Corporate Social Responsibility manager at Crown Hotel Bawtry, attended the launch event. She said: “The Elevate Pathways Programme is absolutely brilliant. Any initiative that gets people into more long-term jobs that work for them as well as the business is fantastic.

“It’s also been amazing to learn more about the work the Foundation does as well. I’m in awe of the work the Foundation does for people in our community.”

Thank you to Next, Crown Hotel Bawtry, Lidl, Active Care Homes, Nexus Corporate Solutions, VolkerRail, DN4 Hospitality, Wavin UK and Treo Recruitment for joining us at the Elevate Pathways launch event. We’re incredibly grateful for your support and look forward to working together to create exciting opportunities for young people across Doncaster.

For more information about Elevate Pathways, or if you are an employer interested in collaborating with the Foundation to support young people across Doncaster, please contact Ben Howe at elevate.pathways@clubdoncasterfoundation.co.uk

New Elevate Pathways programme opens doors to employment for young people across Doncaster