In December major retailer Primark open its long-awaited store on Edinburgh\u2019s Princes Street. This is significant for two reasons. Firstly it\u2019s changed the shopping landscape on one of the world\u2019s most famous streets. Secondly, it has brought more than 500 jobs to city.<\/p>\n
On visiting the store today, I was very pleased to hear that 369 jobs have gone to young people aged 16-25, offering those who were successful a chance to take a step onto the career ladder, improve their employability and perhaps map out a long and fruitful career in retail.<\/p>\n
I was able to briefly meet with some of the young trainees employed on site and was very much taken with their enthusiasm. This is a theme I have picked up in recent weeks, where I\u2019ve been able to hear about the experiences and needs of young people who have found work.<\/p>\n
Much of Primark\u2019s success in Edinburgh has been achieved by the company working closely with the city council, Skills Development Scotland and Jobcentre Plus to help match up potential employees with the right vacancies and give young people the chance to shine. This is something I want to see more of and understand that Primark and West Lothian have done something similar for the opening of their Livingston store.<\/p>\n
The Scottish Government has guaranteed every 16-19 year old a place in education or training through Opportunities for All and I have announced funding packages for Community Jobs Scotland and other parts of the third sector to work with employees on developing job opportunities.<\/p>\n
However, we could do so much more to help young people into employment if we were a government with job creating powers and today\u2019s employment figures underline the need for action.<\/p>\n