Severn Trent to create 400 jobs and placements for young people across the Midlands
Water company joins Government Youth Guarantee scheme as minister visits Coventry training academy
Severn Trent has announced 400 jobs and paid placements for young people across the Midlands as part of the Government’s Youth Guarantee scheme.
The roles for 16 to 24-year-olds will be created over the next three years and will include six-month placements in areas such as water network operations and customer services. Around 25 positions a year will be reserved for care-experienced young people.
To mark the new partnership, the Minister for Skills Jacqui Smith visited Severn Trent's training academy in Coventry, to meet young apprentices developing skills in operations, engineering and other specialist roles.
Baroness Jaqui Smith, Minister for Skills said: "Every young person deserves the opportunity to build a career they're proud of and that is exactly what we are making happen through the Youth Guarantee.
“It is great to see Severn Trent joining a growing number of household businesses backing our mission to open doors and deliver real opportunity across the country.
“Their commitment shows how working hand in hand with businesses provides young people with the skills, the confidence and the chances they need to succeed."
Severn Trent is the latest major employer to back the Government’s Youth Guarantee programme, aimed at helping more young people into work and training, with nearly one million currently not in employment or education.
The Youth Guarantee has already received the backing of major employers including McDonald’s, Premier League and The Royal Shakespeare Company.
Neil Morrison, HR Director at Severn Trent said: "We know giving a young person that first opportunity can be game changing, and at Severn Trent we are committed to providing experiences that result in positive outcomes.
"The Youth Guarantee is a great example on how we can come together to do just that.
“Welcoming talented young people into our organisation, who bring with them new ideas and fresh perspectives ultimately help us be better as a business.
"We firmly believe no matter what organisation or business you are, there’s a role to play in unlocking genuine pathways for young people.”