Meet the outstanding group of looked-after teenagers who excelled themselves in a summer work skills and work experience programme.
Local businesses and partner agencies worked with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Education, Employment and Training team to deliver the Care2Work project, providing the additional support young people in Foster Care can need to enter the world of work and training.
Cafes, an ice cream parlour, a church and a stage school all stepped up to offer valuable work experience placements for Amy Thomas, Cameron Perry Roberts, Anakecia Howells, Kaitlin Nicholas and Lacey French. All were extremely impressed with the teenagers’ commitment and professionalism.
A further two young people, Crystal Edwards and Leon Carre, made history, as South Wales Police changed its work experience policy and lowered the minimum age from 18, so they could join officers and PCSOs on the beat!
Each of the young people excelled themselves on their placements and several have been offered further employment and volunteering opportunities as a result – testament to the enthusiasm and professionalism with which they approached their placements.
A total of 10 young people in care, all at the end of Year 11 or preparing to start work for the first time, joined the Care2Work Summer Employability Scheme. They enjoyed weekly sessions throughout the summer on work and employability skills, concluding with real-life work experience for eight of them.
All were celebrated at an event in St Elvan’s Church, Aberdare earlier this month. Joined by their carers and representatives from their work placements, they were praised for the way they embraced the course and the positive way in which they represented themselves in the world of work.
“Each of these young people should be incredibly proud of the way they showed up for the summer workshops and their work experience”, said Cllr Gareth Caple, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, at the celebration event.
“Many of them had never attended group learning or work experience before. Others had struggled at past courses. But they joined, committed and thrived. They seized the opportunities presented to them and should be so proud of themselves.
“Feedback from those who delivered Summer Employability, and the work experience providers, has been exceptional. You were all outstanding. I hope your success this summer serves as a permanent reminder to all of you of just how much potential you have and what you can – and have – achieved.
“This course would not have been the success it is, and our young people would not have had the opportunities they have had, without the support and dedication of local businesses and partners who committed themselves to our young people as strongly as we have. Thank you, we are very grateful to you.”
Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones, BCU Commander for Mid Glamorgan, was present at the event to represent Sergeant Darryl Jones, whose dedication to collaborating with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has made a real difference in providing opportunities for young people. His advocacy led to a significant change in South Wales Police’s work experience policy, allowing individuals under 18 to participate.
As a result, Crystal and Leon had the chance to join officers and PCSOs on the streets of Aberdare and Pontypridd, playing active roles in investigations, including bringing a thief to justice and returning stolen property to its rightful owner.
Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones said: “This initiative has been a remarkable experience for our force. We’ve gained as much insight from Crystal and Leon as they have from us, appreciating their unique perspectives and innovative approaches.
“Their involvement has helped break down barriers, and demonstrated the courage, integrity, and passion that embody the core values of South Wales Police.”
Representatives from the work experience providers also attended the event and commended for their commitment to providing opportunities for young people. These were: Bradley’s Café, Aberdare; St Elvan’s Church, which hosted two young people; Shake, Waffle and Cone in Aberdare; Delico Deli Aberdare; and STAge Academy.
This year marks 15 years of Care2Work, which is a dedicated support service for young people who are care-experienced, to help them thrive in work, training or further education. It offers a range of opportunities, including the Summer Employability scheme. Find out more about Care to Work and our Education, Employment and Training Team.
Posted on 08/09/2025