Riley, 17 – Turning passion into career

10 December 2025 | All News

Riley,17,  was referred to VIY as a NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young person and joined our renovation project at The Paddocks Community Centre, funded by Castle Point Council through the UKSPF.

Passionate about Painting & Decorating but with no prior experience or opportunity to give it a go,  Riley finally got the chance to try his hand at the trade. With guidance from our skilled trade mentors, he built the confidence and skills to take the next step.

Using our Next Steps Guide and help from VIY Progression Team, Riley explored local opportunities and successfully secured work with a local tradesperson in Canvey Island — a brilliant start to his journey in the trade he loves.