Our pledge for Youth Skills Day

In celebration of Youth Skills Day, we're proud to repledge our investment to support young people's employment and early careers development.

A YouGov poll revealed that two out of three 16 to 25-year-olds feel there are not enough good jobs for young people, and according to Co-operatives UK, young people today face significant challenges such as mental health concerns, job security, career prospects and climate change. Co-operatives offer solutions to these issues by providing ethical employment and ensuring young people have a real say in their working lives.

We are thrilled to pledge 300 work experience placements this year and support an additional 1,500 students through employability workshops as part of our “adopt a school” programme. Local store managers and funeral directors will collaborate with schools and colleges to offer these work experience opportunities throughout the year. These opportunities are available to students in years 10 and 11, those on college or university courses, and adults seeking to retrain.

Placements will be offered in Central Co-op’s food stores, funeral homes or at our Support Centre in Lichfield, providing participants with valuable insights into various roles within the Society. To ensure participants are well-supported, they will receive a complimentary meal deal during their placement.

We also offer structured and successful early career programmes and apprenticeships at all levels, supporting young people to progress through our “Difference Maker Academy”. And have recently launched an Under 25s colleague network, helping to create a Society where young colleagues can thrive and amplify their voices.

Sarah Dickins, our Chief Customer, Member and People Officer and Executive Sponsor of the Under 25s colleague network, commented: “At Central Co-op, we recognise that young people in our communities are our difference makers. We believe that nurturing young talent is not just an investment in their future but also in the future of our communities. This year we’re looking to expand our entry-level programmes to include school and college leavers - so watch this space!”