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Sun, 07 Jun 2026

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 M&S launches new traineeship for 1,000 young people

The scheme aims to tackle the "growing challenge" of young people not in employment, education, or training.

* Marks & Spencer has launched a new training scheme aimed at young people aged 16-24 who are struggling to find employment.
* The scheme, which will create 1,000 training places in the UK and Ireland over 18 months, aims to help tackle youth unemployment and provide opportunities for those not in education or training (Neets).
* According to official figures, more than a million young people are Neets, with one in eight under 25 currently out of work.
* Retailers and hospitality businesses often provide the first experience of work for many young people, but the number of entry-level positions has dropped sharply in recent years.
* M&S' scheme will provide six months of paid training, followed by further training to become a store manager, with no requirement for a degree.
* The company hopes the program will help create career opportunities and progression routes for young people who see retail as a viable long-term option.
* The government has also announced initiatives aimed at addressing youth unemployment, including partnerships with industry and trade unions to examine the impact of AI on entry-level roles.