Hospitality and bar courses tackling youth unemployment

Fourteen young unemployed people from Ealing and Brent, the surrounding boroughs of Diageo’s Global Headquarters, will undergo six weeks' training to prepare them for work in the hospitality industry.

The course includes a mix of technical and vocational qualifications, industry visits and soft skills development. 

Andrew Cowan, country director at Diageo GB said: “Youth unemployment is a difficult issue for London, but London also has one of the most vibrant and fast growing hospitality sectors in the world, with fantastic opportunities for young adults with the right skills.

“We want to give young adults control over their futures to seize these opportunities and at the same time change perceptions of working in the hospitality industry."

A route in to work​

Students will undertake a two week work placement in a London pub or bar, organised by Perceptions Group, followed by a guaranteed interview with a local employer.

Participants are able to keep their benefits throughout the course, widening participation and reducing dropout rates. 

The Learning for Life Hospitality and Bartending course in Britain was piloted by Springboard in Glasgow at the start of 2014, with 70 per cent of graduates going on to immediate employment in the hospitality sector, including working at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2014 and the 2014 Ryder Cup.

Rachel Neuer, programmes manager, Springboard, said: “It’s vital for businesses to give young adults a chance to showcase their skills which is what this programme is all about.

“Springboard works with Diageo Learning for Life because it doesn’t only give these young adults an opportunity to start a vibrant career in hospitality but also provides mentoring and instils confidence in the candidates to succeed.”