THIS AUGUST, IGD DELIVERED A VIRTUAL WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMME FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS, PROVIDING A TASTE OF WORKING LIFE IN THE FOOD AND CONSUMERS GOODS INDUSTRY
Sarah McCarthy, Employability Programmes Manager at IGD, reveals why it is so important to support young people entering the world of work and how the programme brought together a wide range of companies and brands to deliver an experience that will help set the participants up for success.
Young people are set to be amongst the worst affected by the COVID-19 crisis from a skills and employability perspective. Many young peoples’ progression plans after leaving school this summer were disrupted by the pandemic, with many left feeling uncertain and worried about what is next. We know that the number of 18-24-year-olds not in education, employment or training could surge higher than the 2009 financial crisis.
Against this backdrop, we were determined to do something to help. And as the UK’s largest private sector employer, the food and consumer goods industry recognises its responsibility to help young people and support the community in these challenging times. We also have a great story to tell young people about the exciting range of skilled careers available in FMCG – a sector that has been vitally important during the pandemic.
This article was also published in The Retailer, our quarterly online magazine providing thought-leading insights from BRC experts and Associate Members.
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