DRINKS giant Diageo has a launched a new 15-day training programme which will help young people in the north to access employment in the hospitality sector, which has been hardest hit during the pandemic.
The Guinness Learning for Life – Gateway to Hospitality is a free 15-day pre-employment training programme which will give 18- to 26-year-olds the targeted industry skills along with an accredited qualification and a guaranteed industry interview.
And the launch has taken on added significance with many people having left the hospitality sector due to the impact of the pandemic.
Participants in the programme, which has been developed in partnership with employment charity Springboard and the Andras Group, will gain targeted industry and business skills, achieve an accredited industry qualification, be provided with CV and interview technique support and be guaranteed an industry interview.
Diageo corporate relations manager Claire Hutchinson said “We are passionately committed to supporting the hospitality industry and recognise the pressing issue of staff shortages following months of mandatory closures.
“This programme will provide young people in Northern Ireland with the tools, training and skills in the key areas they need to gain employment and thrive in the hospitality trade.
“The need to fill the skills gap has never been greater, with businesses having been closed and young people, so crucial to the vibrancy in the industry, moving away to seek employment in other sectors.”
Sharon Thorpe from Springboard said: “We're delighted to partner with Diageo on the Gateway to Hospitality training programme with the collective approach being to raise awareness of the hospitality, leisure and tourism industry, encouraging young people to choose it as a real career option.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to learn many new skills and gain industry accredited qualifications, all in just 15 days.”
