HSBC has continued its support of the Diana Award, Jersey Mentoring Programme.
HSBC has shared its insights into the world of work, the uses of transferable skills and the importance of wellbeing, with young 14 and 15-year-olds selected from the Island’s Secondary State schools.
The Diana Award is a charity that enables young people who could be at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) to build their social, emotional and career skills, supported by their mentors. Its Jersey Mentoring Programme, now in the third year, is supported by HSBC through funding and educational sessions run by the team. It’s also supported by The States of Jersey Police and the States of Jersey Ambulance Service.
This year’s cohort of students was recently invited to visit the Bank’s Halkett Street branch and HSBC House, where they heard presentations from staff in the Marketing, Digital, Legal, Distribution and Product teams. The students also presented their own social action project, which they have been working on as part of the programme.
Emma Bunnell, CEO and Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC Channel Islands and Isle of Man, commented: “We are proud to be continuing our support of the programme and our partnership with The Diana Award. HSBC is absolutely committed to supporting educational programmes such as this and helping young people develop workplace skills.”
Commenting on HSBC’s ongoing support, Tessy Ojo CBE, CEO of The Diana Award said: “We are delighted to have continued community support in Jersey from HSBC. We know that mentoring can be life-changing for a young person and enhance their future prospects. Young people without a positive role model in their life don’t often hear the words, ‘you can do it and this is how’ – support and positive encouragement that our mentors on the programme provide.”
The programme has supported 24 young people in Jersey over the first two years. This year’s cohort of 14 have also benefited from workplace visits to the emergency services and educational sessions delivered by Liberate JE, Skills Jersey and the Jersey Museum.
