Lidl, the German-owned supermarket chain, has announced a new initiative aimed at supporting long-term unemployed individuals in the UK. As part of the programme, individuals who have been out of work for six months or more will be offered a guaranteed job interview with the company.
The move, which was announced by Lidl UK's chief executive Christian Härtnagel, aims to 'level the playing field' and provide opportunities for those who may be struggling to get back into employment. Härtnagel stated that the initiative is part of the company's commitment to supporting local communities and investing in the UK's economic growth.
According to the Office for National Statistics, approximately 1.3 million people in the UK have been out of work for 12 months or more, with many facing significant barriers to entering the job market. Lidl's initiative aims to address this issue by providing a helping hand to those in need.
The company will work with local job centres and employment agencies to identify eligible applicants and match them with available positions at Lidl stores across the UK. Härtnagel added that the company is committed to supporting its new colleagues and providing them with the necessary training and development to succeed in their roles.