Marks and Spencer has pledged to train and support nearly 2,000 hard to reach young people through its Marks & Start programme over the next three years as part of its multi-year strategy with The King’s Trust.

Now in its 20th year, the scheme helps people who face barriers to employment get their first step on the career ladder and so far has helped 30,000 individuals gain employment. This includes 12,000 young people through the retailer’s partnership with The King’s Trust.

The retailer said four out of five participants who have completed the scheme have gone on to have a career within its business.