Homebase is creating new jobs in Newcastle-under-Lyme this September. As the first home and garden retailer taking part in the government’s Kickstart Scheme, Homebase will create 300 jobs across Britain for young people.

The Scheme has generated two jobs in the Newcastle-under-Lyme store, giving people aged 16-24 in the local area the chance to learn valuable new skills, gain real life work experience and build confidence so that they are prepared to take on the challenges and exciting prospects in the bright careers that lie ahead.

One of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s newest team members is Nahum Morganti who chose the Scheme to develop his skills following his volunteering experience with St John’s Ambulance. He explains: “Before the Scheme, I completed a BTEC at college but couldn’t find the right role for me. I had been searching for 10 months when I came across Kickstart at the job centre – I took up the opportunity to apply straight away.

“From volunteering, I knew that I wanted a build on my existing skills and focus on boosting my confidence. I was familiar with my local Homebase store and I’ve only ever heard great things about working there, so I knew it would be the right choice for me.”

Nahum applied to over fifty jobs before securing a position on the Scheme. Following the end of the placement, he hopes to continue his work with St John’s Ambulance, using his experience in business and retail at Homebase to support the charity.

The six-month Scheme will include skill-based training throughout, providing each young person with the opportunity to gain valuable experience. From stock management processes, digital sales, customer relationship management and health and safety processes, to problem-solving, organisation and teamwork, these are just some of the skills that Homebase’s new team members can expect to learn and take with them into their future careers.

In partnership with The Prince’s Trust, a UK-wide youth charity with 45 years’ worth of experience specialising in youth employability support, Homebase’s new team members will receive support every step of the way, with access to the charity’s network of youth support workers, partners and mentors. The Kickstart Scheme is also funded by Department of Work and Pensions to ensure every young person participating will be guaranteed National Living Wage or National Minimum Wage.

Homebase is proud to be involved in the Kickstart Scheme, providing young people at risk of unemployment with the opportunity to begin their career at a retailer with over 40 years of expertise.