28/07/2011
Top-notch posh sandwich chain, Pret a Manger, has taken on 25 new apprentices to mark its birthday – one for each year it has been trading.
The apprenticeships have been awarded on a three month basis and candidates that perform well will end the period with a full time, permanent position with the company.
The scheme is designed to help those from challenging backgrounds break the cycle of debt, poverty and homelessness and provide them with key skills and experiences and hopefully permanent employment.
Pret a Manger worked with eight different community projects and charities from both inside and outside the capital before inviting prospective apprentices in for an interview at one of their locations.
Sceptics of the scheme may say this is nothing more than a ruse for the food chain to get cheap labour for three months, but whilst in their probation period, the new recruits will not only be on a full salary but also will be provided with additional benefits. As well as an extra £100 to buy suitable work attire and help contribute towards travel expenses, Pret will be giving its newest members some help in other areas to help them fully integrate back into society, such as assistance with setting up a bank account.
This is not the first time Pret have recruited new staff unconventionally – this scheme has been running for a number of years now and according to the company, it has proven to be mutually beneficial, with more than 75% of apprentices securing full-time employment with Pret.
The head of the scheme, Nicki Fisher, said that the apprenticeships gave individuals a 'second chance' and helped them to access services which had been off limits to them for some time, such as their own accommodation and bank account. For the rare individuals who don't stay on with Pret, they have still gained valuable experience which could help them to secure alternative employment.
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