The Co-op has announced 50 new job vacancies in the South of England, as part of the government’s kickstart youth employment scheme.
The Co-op branches are advertising the placements, which are open to 16 to 24 year olds on universal credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment.
There are also three roles at the supermarket’s head office in Portsmouth, in recruitment, corporate affairs and communications.
READ MORE: Co-op expands Amazon partnership in Bournemouth
So far, there have been 38 people employed by the regional co-operative via the kickstart scheme.
“Unemployment has been higher in younger age groups for some time and unfortunately this has been exacerbated by the pandemic,” Southern Co-op business transformation & HR director Sarah Kavanagh said.
“It is clear to us that they need additional help now to get back into work or to take the first step toward full time employment.
“The Kickstart Scheme means we look for people aged 16 to 24, with the right attitude, and give them the opportunity to learn new skills whilst being paid.
Kavanagh added: “We expected it to take a bit of time for some to find their feet and get into the routine of work but, after about three weeks, we have been getting some great feedback. One manager described their new starter as ‘100% amazing’, ‘flexible, keen and willing to try anything’.”
Click here to sign up to Grocery Gazette’s free daily email newsletter
