Tui Care Foundation sets up UK Academy to support unemployed youngsters

Tui’s independent charitable organisation is setting up a UK Academy offering to part fund pay for 60 unemployed youngsters.

The initiative includes a wage subsidy partnership with combined authorities and local councils, who will contribute half of an apprentice wage, with small business employers funding the remaining 50%.

The Tui Care Foundation has established a joint initiative with Luton Borough Council and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority – areas identified both for their strong tourism potential and higher-than-average unemployment.

It will support young people gain an apprenticeship qualification as a step towards a career.

The scheme will make use of Tui’s apprenticeship levy funds to cover all training costs, while support from the TUI Care Foundation will help offset small company wage burdens - making apprenticeship recruitment more accessible for smaller employers. 

In addition, SMEs can have access to a new youth jobs grant worth £3,000 which may be awarded if the hired apprentice is aged 18-24 and has been on Universal Credit and looking for work for six months.

The programme is designed to offer a structured and supportive pathway into the tourism and hospitality sectors, according to the Tui Foundation.

Participants will complete a nine-month Level 2 Customer Service apprenticeship in the retail, hospitality or tourism sectors. 

Candidates will be sourced in collaboration with partners including YMCA, Shaw Trust, Working Chance and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Participants will also benefit from additional support such as English and maths skills development, peer forums and mentoring, and access to networking opportunities through Tui and local employers

Foundation managing director Alexander Panczuk said: “This initiative brings together the strengths of the Tui Care Foundation, local combined and council authorities, specialist employability partners as well as the business expertise of Tui to create an accessible, inclusive and financially viable apprenticeship route.

“We are committed to helping people build skills and confidence, while giving SMEs the support they need to grow.”

Councillor Javeria Hussain, Luton Borough Council portfolio holder for education, employability and skills, added: "We are delighted to work with Tui and the Tui Care Foundation on this initiative which will help create better opportunities for young people in Luton through the development of apprenticeships.

“This is part of the council’s 2040 vision to upskill the local workforce and provide fulfilling and challenging jobs for everyone."