Major hospitality businesses, including Whitbread, McDonald’s and Nando’s, have partnered with the government to target 100,000 paid jobs over three years for young people aged 18–24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Opportunities will include work experience and training.

The partnership aims to help young people gain skills, confidence and experience, with employers also expanding access to the Hospitality Skills Passport.

Pat McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “I’m delighted that the industry is helping unemployed young people get their first step on the ladder and build their careers.”

The announcement also included a review of school exclusions, highlighting the link between school attendance and future employment. Persistently absent pupils are almost four times more likely to become NEET.

See also: UK High Street Bosses Urge Chancellor to Cut Cost of Employing Young People