Three Wetherspoon pubs in Hertfordshire are working with their local Jobcentre Plus service, to offer young people work opportunities.
The Six Templars (in Hertford), The King James (in Cheshunt) and The Moon and Cross (in Waltham Cross) have all taken on 18- to 24-year-olds, as part of a work experience placement programme.
Supporting the government’s ‘Get Britain Working’ initiative, Jobcentre Plus asks local businesses to offer work experience to unemployed young people. For some, it is their first taste of the work place.
Adie Fox, pub manager at The Six Templars, said: “We have a great relationship with our local Jobcentre Plus. The programme has been very successful at our pub and has benefited us, as well as the young people looking for work.
“We currently have three members of staff at the pub, bar associates Jon Howe and Daniel Amerigo and kitchen associate Peter Smith, who have all come through the work placement scheme.”
Adie, who runs the pub with David Jarnell, said: “They all receive Wetherspoon training and can apply for a job with us after that period. For some, it is not what they are looking for, but others see it as a career opportunity.
“There is no pressure for them to work for Wetherspoon. If a job is available and they want to apply, then that is fantastic. However, the training and experience which they receive stand them in good stead for future job prospects.
“They can all add that experience to their CVs and, when applying for work, can confidently say: ‘I have worked for Wetherspoon; this is what I have learned and this is what I can do.'.”
Additionally,The Moon and Cross, in Waltham Cross has also taken on three associates through the scheme.
Chris Grayling, Minister for Employment, said: “Youth unemployment is my biggest priority in government. Often, I have asked business to join us in giving opportunities to young people.
“I am delighted that Wetherspoon is rising to this challenge and offering people the chance to train and work at its establishments.”