WAITROSE in Okehampton has been offering free skills training to help tackle youth unemployment in the area as part of a nationwide initiative.

Youngsters from and around Okehampton had the opportunity to gain the skills they need to get work last Thursday as part of a nationwide campaign to tackle youth unemployment this September.

Following the success of a pilot project in 2012, the entire food and grocery industry has launched Feeding Britain's Future — Skills for Work Month 2013.

Last year 70 businesses participated, in 700 locations, including Waitrose. The campaign provided 10,000 skills training opportunities, with 98% of participants saying they felt more confident applying for a job. More than half have secured employment since they took part in the workshops.

Youngsters from Okehampton took part in workshops with Waitrose personnel managers, covering topics including how to complete job applications, mock interview practice and CV writing.

They also found out about career opportunities in the retail industry, and took part in a product knowledge session with a Waitrose specialist in meat and fish, cheese and deli or wine. At the end of the workshop, each participant received a certificate to confirm their attendance.

Feeding Britain's Future, led by industry research body IGD with the support of Jobcentre Plus, is the first initiative of its kind, giving young people access to farms, factories and stores, and firsthand knowledge of the skills needed for a career in the food industry or elsewhere.

Laura Grant, branch manager at Waitrose Okehampton, said: 'Waitrose is committed to helping young people to get into work, particularly during these difficult economic times.

'Two fifths of our workforce is under 25, and young people are vital to the success of our business.'

Joanne Denney-Finch, chief executive of IGD, said: 'The UK food and grocery industry employs 3.7-million people — making us Britain's biggest private sector employer.

'With that scale comes responsibility — we have a vital role to play in tackling youth unemployment by sharing our advice and experience.'