We’re pleased to share a statement on behalf of Springboard addressing the launch of the Youth Jobs Grant.
Springboard is a national charity that helps people from all backgrounds start careers in the hospitality, leisure and tourism industries. It provides training, education and employability programmes that equip individuals with practical skills and connects them to job opportunities.
Please also see the statement below:
“Today marks the launch of the Youth Jobs Grant, and what we at Springboard welcome as a positive and practical step. With one million young people currently not in education, employment or training, bold action is long overdue. Offering employers £3,000 to take on a young person who has been out of work for six months directly addresses one of the biggest barriers we see every day, the financial risk that can put businesses off giving young people that crucial first chance.
We were pleased to see hospitality businesses represented at the Downing Street roundtable, and hope this signals growing recognition of the sector’s vital role in tackling this crisis. At Springboard, we know first-hand what happens when that door opens. Last year alone, we supported 5,109 people into employment or education, with 65% coming from areas of high multiple deprivation and more than half aged 18–24, exactly the young people this grant is designed to reach. With 86% of our trainees remaining in work after 12 months, we know that with the right training, support and opportunity, these aren’t just first jobs, they’re the start of lasting careers.
For hospitality employers looking to access the grant, Springboard can help. Our graduates have already completed accredited hospitality training, are motivated to work and almost half of them meet the eligibility criteria for the Youth Jobs Grant, meaning businesses can benefit from the £3,000 incentive while hiring candidates who are genuinely ready to hit the ground running. We would encourage any employer in our sector to get in touch and find out how we can work together to make this scheme a success.”
Chris Gamm, CEO at Springboard
Chris has been Chief Executive of Springboard since August 2020, leading the charity in its mission to transform lives through hospitality. Under his leadership, Springboard delivers innovative training that will deliver one million hospitality skills by 2030 and supports 5,000 people each year into meaningful employment in the industry. Chris is passionate about building partnerships that expand Springboard’s reach and impact, equipping young people and adults with the skills, confidence and support they need to succeed in hospitality.
