The Opening Shift programme, developed by the Department for Work and Pensions and the British Retail Consortium, is set to provide more than 11,000 supported work experience placements for young people aged 18 to 24 who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) across Croydon. This initiative is part of a broader ambition by the retail sector and the government to create 100,000 jobs for NEET young people by the end of this Parliament.
Addressing the No-Experience Barrier
According to Natasha Irons, Labour MP for Croydon, the programme aims to tackle the "no experience, no job" cycle head-on, with government and businesses working together to open doors for young people. The placements will last between two and four weeks, offering participants 16 to 35 hours of practical experience each week. This structure is designed to give young people a realistic taste of working life while building their confidence and skills.
The programme is not just about placing young people into a workplace and leaving them to manage alone. Participants will receive dedicated workplace support and valuable interview experience, helping them build the skills they need to take their next step. This support is crucial for those who may have faced barriers to employment previously.
Voluntary Participation and Additional Benefits
Opening Shift is voluntary, and eligible participants will continue to receive their Universal Credit entitlement. Help with travel costs is also available where needed, removing potential financial barriers to participation. This ensures that young people can focus on gaining experience without worrying about the cost of getting to their placement.
Beyond work experience, the programme offers pathways to permanent employment. Where a permanent role is available, a participant could be offered a job. Others could be placed in a retailer's talent bank or connected with an apprenticeship, providing a clear route to long-term career development.
Retailers Involved and Local Impact
More than 40 retailers have helped develop Opening Shift, including major names such as John Lewis Partnership, Costa Coffee, Amazon, Boots and M&S. This broad industry support highlights the retail sector's commitment to providing first-step opportunities for young people.
Irons expressed her support for the initiative, stating, "I want to see young people across Croydon have every chance to build a secure future. No young person should be held back simply because they have not yet been given the opportunity to demonstrate what they can do." The programme is expected to make a significant difference in Croydon, where many young people face the challenge of entering the job market without prior experience.
