Key facts
- Over 40 UK retailers will offer up to 100,000 short-term work placements for young people aged 18-24.
- The placements, lasting two to four weeks, are for individuals not in employment, education, or training (Neet).
- Participants will continue to receive universal credit during their placements.
- The initiative aims to provide a pathway to paid work, with interviews guaranteed upon completion.
- Retailers aim to create 100,000 permanent jobs by 2029, with over 11,000 placements already pledged.
More than 40 UK retailers, including major players like Tesco, Boots, Marks & Spencer, Asda, and the John Lewis Partnership, have committed to creating up to 100,000 short-term work placements for young people aged 18-24 who are not in employment, education, or training (Neet).
The initiative, dubbed Opening Shift, aims to provide a crucial first step into the workforce for young individuals facing a cycle of "no experience, no job." The placements will last between two and four weeks, during which participants can continue to receive universal credit. This program is a collaboration between retailers, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
Former health secretary Alan Milburn, who is leading a review into youth worklessness, welcomed the scheme, warning that the number of Neets could rise significantly without such interventions. He highlighted that a lack of prior work experience is a major barrier for many young jobseekers. The scheme's leader, Marc Bolland, a former M&S chief executive, emphasized the success of similar initiatives and encouraged broader retailer participation.
Upon completion of their placements, participants will be guaranteed an interview for potential permanent roles. Retailers have set a goal of creating 100,000 permanent jobs by 2029, with over 11,000 placements already pledged. The DWP will utilize its jobcentres to connect eligible young people with these opportunities.