The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new 'passport' scheme designed to help 100,000 young adults aged 18 to 24 secure jobs in the hospitality sector across England and Wales. The initiative involves major UK high street brands, including McDonald's, Burger King and Nando's, and has already been rolled out in Cardiff, London, Liverpool, Manchester and Coventry.
Government's Youth Guarantee and employer commitments
The announcement comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham awaits recommendations on tackling youth unemployment, with reports suggesting changes could include replacing Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit for young people classed as NEET (not in employment, education or training), according to Cambridgeshire Live.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 3, the DWP outlined support for young people through entry-level roles in the hospitality sector, including pubs, restaurants and hotels. Responding to a question from West Midlands MP Preet Kaur Gill, DWP minister Andrew Western said: "With around one million young people not in education, employment and training, this Government will not leave an entire generation of young people behind."
Investment and industry backing
Western added: "The Government is investing an additional £2.5 billion by 2029 into the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy, supporting almost one million young people and creating up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn."
He noted that DWP is working with UKHospitality and leading hospitality employers to create more opportunities for young people to enter employment and develop skills. Hospitality businesses including Whitbread, McDonald's, Nando's, Marriott, Compass, Burger King and Wagamama have committed to providing over 100,000 jobs for 18 to 24-year-olds not in employment, education or training by the end of Parliament.
Industry perspective on the scheme
Jane Byrd, managing director of Compass Cymru, part of the Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: "We are part of a barrierless industry where often people need no or very few qualifications to join. This puts us in a unique position to help offer opportunities for people to develop and thrive."
