According to reports, operators including Fuller’s, Mitchells & Butlers, Nando’s, Wagamama, Burger King and Premier Inn will work with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to offer opportunities to people aged 18 to 24 who are not in employment, education or training (NEET).
Join our WhatsApp channel: The Morning Round-Up
Get the biggest pub trade stories straight to your phone. Listen to our one-minute daily news briefing and receive breaking news, exclusives and sector updates throughout the day. Remember to turn notifications on in the top right corner!
Participants will be offered placements lasting up to four weeks, designed to build the skills and confidence needed to move into employment.
The initiative is due to be launched by Prime Minister Andy Burnham during a visit to a hospitality venue today (15 October).
Youth employment
Work and pensions secretary Pat McFadden said the programme would help young people get their “first step on the ladder” and connect them with employers looking to recruit.
The announcement comes amid growing concern over the number of young people outside work or education.
Former health secretary Alan Milburn is currently conducting a review into youth unemployment, with his recommendations expected to be published following the Autumn Budget on 28 October.
Employment costs
However, businesses have continued to warn that rising employment costs are making it more difficult to recruit young workers.
Family Business UK (FBUK) said 38% of family firms viewed the cost of employing younger workers as a significant barrier to recruitment.
In its Budget submission, the organisation called for a six-month employer national insurance holiday for businesses recruiting people aged 18 to 24, or first-time employees up to 30.
FBUK estimated the measure could support around 100,000 recruits.
Chief executive Neil Davy said: “Family businesses want to invest, grow and create good, long-term jobs. But rising employment costs are making it harder for firms to take on staff, just when the country needs businesses to create more opportunities for young people.”
FBUK has also called for greater support for paid internships, apprenticeships and an expanded Youth Guarantee.
The hospitality sector has repeatedly warned ahead of the Budget that increases in employment costs risk limiting recruitment, particularly among younger and entry-level workers.
