Building Happier Futures Initiative with John Lewis

Some of our young people have had a fantastic opportunity to explore careers in retail this month. John Lewis and Partners offer a scheme to identify and recruit talented people who’ve experienced care to become Partners (employees) in their business.

The Building Happier Futures programme allows our young people to work alongside a buddy for 3-5 days, taking part in activity that the Partners do day-to-day in their jobs in a realistic experience. The programme begins with a full tour of the store, with access to behind the scenes areas including visual merchandising. Followed by 3 days of hands on work.

Part of the work experience includes an interview skills workshop leading to an invitation to interview for a role following a successful 3 days.

We have had young people completing their work experience in Southampton and Bournemouth Waitrose stores, local to their supported accommodation, and also at John Lewis which has proved to be very motivating, inspiring and have benefitted positively by taking part.

Two of our young people have been interviewed by John Lewis following their work experience and have been successful in securing Partner roles themselves. 

What a wonderful programme that supports our young people and allows them to experience what it feels like to be successful.