Local youngsters given opportunities at local Asda

Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney, has praised the efforts of local people participating in Asda’s “Get Into Retail” youth employment initiative which has seen local youngsters move into permanent employment with the retailer.

Working in partnership with the Prince’s Trust Scotland, local, unemployed youngsters were given the opportunity to take part in a four-week training programme with the supermarket giant. As well as learning a number of retail skills whilst on placement, those taking part were also offered assistance with CV writing and interview techniques. At the end of the four weeks, three young people in Perth Asda completed their placements.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

elighted that young people in Perthshire North are benefiting from the partnership between Asda and the Prince’s Trust Scotland. I am particularly pleased for the local youngsters who have now gained a permanent contract in the store, taking them out of unemployment.

“It is important that young people learn the necessary skills to gain, and retain, employment. Programmes, such as this one, will be invaluable to some youngsters looking to get into work for the first time or who need help re-entering the world of work.

“I hope that Asda will continue to promote the value of work to young people and that their partnership with the Prince’s Trust will continue to benefit young people in Perth for a long time to come.”

Across Scotland, 11 young people participated in the “Get Into Retail” programme, with three completing their placements in Perth. Everybody who was offered work has been guaranteed 16 hours of work per week and will continue to receive mentoring and support from the Prince’s Trust Scotland.