The Government’s Kickstart scheme, which was launched to help tackle youth unemployment, has led to 34 people securing permanent roles with Southern Co-op.
After opening up a large number of roles across its stores, funeral services and head office, 76 people took up placements under the scheme which was aimed at 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit who were at risk of long-term unemployment.
The final placements finished at the end of September which also tied in with the 2022 National Inclusion Week dedicated to celebrating inclusion and taking action to create inclusive workplaces.
Just over 65% who completed the six-month placement, were offered permanent roles
Here on the Isle of Wight, Jamie McCallum also impressed the local team at the Lake funeral branch. Jamie, who has autism, dyslexia and attention deficit disorder, has previously struggled with employment and initially came across as chronically shy and lacking in any confidence.
Sean Worthington, Area Support Centre Manager, said:
“Within a year, Jamie went from being frozen with fear, to, actively engaging with medical professionals and taking a lead role.
“Kickstart gave Jamie the time he needed to slowly build his confidence and bring out his full potential. He has turned his inner turmoil into outer strength and made a tremendous impact on the funeral team as well as everyone else he meets.
Article continues below this advertisement “Jamie’s family has even seen a significant change as he is now actively involved in wider family conversations and brimming with confidence whilst showing his true character.
After the Kickstart scheme finished, Jamie, aged 23, was taken on as a Casual Funeral Service Operative, impressing people with his politeness, keenness, and smart attire.
In order to help them gain as many skills as possible, Southern Co-op’s programme also included training for a Level One Certificate in Employability Skills run by Havant & South Downs College.
Sarah Kavanagh, Business Transformation & HR Director at Southern Co-op, said:
“What the Kickstart Scheme proved is that, with the right attitude and the right opportunity, people can overcome barriers and gain the confidence to progress their careers.
“Whilst the Kickstart scheme has come to an end, we still have opportunities open for the right candidates at our stores and branches across the south. We also have work experience and work placements available and would encourage anyone interested to come and talk to us.”
To find out more about career opportunities with Southern Co-op, visit https://www.southernco-opjobs.co.uk/jobs/.
