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CXL puts Families First

With young people’s attitudes to education and employment formed at an early age by family role models, social business CXL has launched an innovative pilot in the Shadsworth and Whitebirk areas of Blackburn, which aims to break the unemployment cycle that can exist in families, leading to young people becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

Lancaster and Morecambe businesses “missing out” say recruitment experts

Lancaster and Morecambe businesses are missing out by not employing young people, according to Lancashire recruitment experts CXL.

CXL scoops top customer service award

CXL’s Business and Meeting Centre has won a prestigious regional award for its first class service to customers.

Cash Boost for East Lancs Employers

Businesses in East Lancashire are set to benefit from nearly £1m to help them survive and thrive through the economic downturn.

CXL charity fundraising smashes all targets

Staff at CXL have smashed their own target by raising an amazing £3249.21 in support of their sponsored charity Nightsafe.

Blackpool MP views innovative education retention package

Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden dropped in on a seminar showcasing an online careers package that’s been developed to identify and support students who are at risk of dropping out of college.

Natalie takes next step to the fashion world

20 October 2008

Natalie Baillie from Colne has taken the next step in making it in the world of fashion and design, by embarking on a degree course at Salford University. Natalie, 19,  overcame the odds after leaving school at 16 and finding herself in a job with no future to turning her life and prospects around through the Learning Agreement Pilot.

Having scooped two awards at the Learning Agreement Pilot Celebration Event, Natalie’s university place is the icing on the cake. The awards recognise Natalie’s commitment and dedication to the Learning Agreement Pilot, which has helped her to gain a BTEC National Diploma in Fashion and Design whilst studying at Blackburn College.

Natalie had to overcome many hurdles to get where she is today, not least the daily commute to the Blackburn based course and her thirty hours a week work commitments. The Learning Agreement Pilot supported Natalie throughout difficult times, offering help with transport costs, part-funding art resources and finding new employment that better fitted in with her studies. Thanks to this support and Natalie’s unfaltering dedication, she completed the course with merits in July 2008.

Sharon Parkinson, Learning Agreement Personal Adviser said, “Natalie is a shining example for other young people of what can be achieved with a committed and determined attitude. It has been an absolute privilege to work with someone who is an inspiration to everyone. I couldn’t be happier that she has started university, it’s such a fantastic achievement and she should be very proud.”

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Louise Elo, Learning Agreement Pilot Project Manager said: “Natalie has been an inspiration to us all and I am so glad we can celebrate her achievements. The evening has been a massive success and mirrors the success of The Learning Agreement Pilot throughout Lancashire. Everyone involved has shown great dedication and tonight has been a brilliant opportunity to recognise that and thank them all for their hard work.”
Natalie Baillie

Natalie (left) with LAP Project Manager Louise Elo