Sector partners with government for NEET jobs

Several companies from the hospitality sector have said that they will work with the government to provide paid employment as well as work experience and training opportunities for 18 to 24 year olds who are not in education, work or training.

Companies including Whitbread, Marriott, Parkdean Resorts, Haven, Fuller’s, and De Vere, will commit to 100,000 paid jobs over three years, offering young people the chance to gain skills, confidence and experience.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “Hospitality has long provided young people with a route into the world of work.

“I’m delighted that the industry is helping unemployed young people get their first step on the ladder and build their careers.

“With the UK employment rate now the second highest in the G7, this will unlock 100,000 jobs and connect young people with employers ready to take them on and help them build a brighter future.”

Dominic Paul, CEO of Whitbread, said: “Hospitality has always played a vital role in giving young people their first experience of the world of work, and we take our role in creating opportunity seriously. As the UK’s largest hospitality business with Premier Inn hotels in every corner of the country, we’re proud that many young people join us for their first job and that many of them stay with us to build their careers.

“We want to strengthen our industry’s partnership with government and are delighted to work with it to deliver this programme. It will create opportunities all over the country for young people at a time when we know there are many who need a leg up into the workplace. We know it’s a big challenge for the country and as a business with no barriers to entry, no limits to ambition, we’re committed to playing our part.”