The UK hospitality sector is set to offer up to 100,000 jobs to young people aged 18 to 24 who are not in employment, education, or training (Neet). This initiative, spanning the next three years, aims to provide a crucial first step into the workforce.
Working with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), participating businesses include restaurant chains like Wagamama, Nando’s, and Burger King, hotel chain Premier Inn, and pub chains such as Fuller’s and Mitchells & Butlers. These placements, lasting up to four weeks, are designed to help young people gain necessary skills and confidence.
The scheme will be launched by Andy Burnham during a visit to a hospitality venue on Thursday. It follows a similar DWP-backed initiative announced last month for retailers, including Marks & Spencer and Asda.
The work and pensions secretary, Pat McFadden, stated the scheme would help young people "get their first step on the ladder" and build careers. He added that it would "unlock 100,000 jobs and connect young people with employers ready to take them on and help them build a brighter future."
This move comes ahead of the publication of a report on Neets by former health secretary Alan Milburn. Milburn has previously warned that the number of young people not in work or education in the UK could increase to 1.25 million over the next five years without government intervention. His full review, including recommendations, is expected soon after the autumn budget on 28 October.
Education secretary Lucy Powell is also expected to announce a review of school exclusion changes, noting that persistent absence from school increases the risk of becoming Neet. A consultation will gather views on supporting students at risk of exclusion and improving classroom engagement.