The Southern Co-op has offered 34 people roles across its business following placement through the Government’s Kickstart scheme.
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. Just over 65% who completed the six month placement, were offered permanent roles.
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.
The Kickstart Scheme placements were funded by the Government for 25 hours per week for six months and referrals were made via local Jobcentres.
Southern Co-op’s programme also included training for a Level One Certificate in Employability Skills run by Havant & South Downs College.
One of the roles at its retail stores was Chloe Wren who works at The Co-operative Food in Shirley, Croydon. Chloe started her Kickstart placement on 29 November and by April she had been promoted to duty manager. She is now considering management training to possibly become a store manager in the future.
Chloe said: “I was at university for two years and it just wasn’t for me. I had a lot of health issues so I had to go on Universal Credit. I was too nervous to find a job myself as I needed a bit of support. I got told about Kickstart and I thought I’ll go for it.
“It was terrifying but, as soon as I started here, they thought of me as part of the team. It really did boost my confidence.
“I didn’t think that I’d stay in this job but with the experience that I have got from it and the people, it has changed my life. I feel I have a purpose.”
Her duty manager Allyson Munro said: “She cared from the start. Everyone needs a Chloe at their work. It’s not just somewhere she comes and gets money and goes home.
“She enjoys it here and we enjoy her being here. She’s great and she’s just a nice friend. We have been there to help her gain more confidence. We help each other out all the time we can.”
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.”
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