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McDonald’s UK has officially launched a work experience programme providing 2,500 paid placements to young people across the country today (22 April).
The initiative aims to address the causes of youth unemployment as the number of people not in education, employment or training (NEET) nears one million.
According to the fast food chain, this programme will focus on areas with high unemployment rates and intends to scale up its intake annually. Placements will target individuals who are currently NEET or at risk of becoming so, accounting for 25% of the initial 2,500 roles.
It comes as research commissioned by the company for its Youth Confidence Index found that 67% of young people want work experience but cannot find opportunities, while a further 61% of respondents stated they were unable to afford to take on unpaid roles.
Participants over the age of 16 will take part in five-day placements within restaurants. These sessions cover inventory checks, drive-thru operations, and customer service. Trainees will also receive coaching on interview techniques and time management from experienced restaurant crew.
The hospitality business has also partnered with the Centre for Young Lives and the Institute for Public Policy Research to study social mobility. This follows the company’s apprenticeship programme, which has supported 22,000 people since 2006.
Lauren Schultz, chief executive of McDonald’s UK&I, said: “At McDonald’s, we believe in the potential and ability of young people and want to help them make it. With over 100,000 employees under 25 across the UK, we have the reach to make a real difference and are uniquely positioned to open doors at scale.”
Secretary of state for work and pensions, Pat McFadden, said: “McDonald’s have a strong track record of supporting and training up young people, and it is fantastic to see them using their position to help even more overcome barriers and set them up for successful careers.”
Chair of the government’s young people and work review, Alan Milburn, added: “High-quality work experience delivered at scale can be transformative, and McDonald’s commitment shows the kind of leadership employers need to demonstrate if we’re serious about giving every young person a fair start.”
