Max SteventonThe Power of Events has secured funding through a Purple Guide Grant to support the delivery of 500 Experience of Work opportunities for young people.
The programme is designed to provide exposure to the events industry through day-long placements in real working environments. It builds on the organisation’s Schools Engagement Programme and aims to introduce participants to a range of roles across the sector.
Pilot sessions have already taken place in partnership with The O2, PLASA and The TEAM, with further programmes in development. The grant will support opportunities linked to the outdoor events sector.
Industry associations including the MIA, PSA, ABPCO and PLASA have committed to providing places on the programme. Members will be able to use these allocations to host participants within their organisations.
The initiative is also being supported by venues, agencies, organisers and suppliers across the UK events industry. The Power of Events will provide guidance on safeguarding, risk assessment, school liaison and delivery processes.
An Experience of Work Toolkit will be made available to support organisations in running sessions for groups of between five and 50 participants.
The programme is scheduled to launch in September 2026, with participant activity expected to begin in November. Activities may include site tours, practical tasks, live build exposure and interaction with industry staff.
The Power of Events CEO Rick Stainton said, “This funding is an important step in creating opportunities for young people to experience the events industry. Experience of Work is designed to increase awareness of roles and career pathways within the sector.”
Chair of the Purple Guide board Steve Heap said, “The Purple Guide supports this work through grant funding. Industry engagement is required to support workforce development and address recruitment needs in the outdoor events sector. The guide is funded through subscriptions and supports related industry initiatives.”