The John Lewis Partnership has announced its ambition to hire more than 300 care experienced young people by January 2025 as part of its Building Happier Futures programme.
The Partnership has hired around 76 people with Care Experience backgrounds through the Building Happier Futures programme.
It said the new ambition coincides with the celebration of Foster Care Fortnight (13-26 May) run by The Fostering Network, highlighting the “Partnership’s dedication to providing meaningful career opportunities for people with experience of the care system”.
In support of Foster Care Fortnight, Waitrose chefs led a cooking masterclass for foster families at the Waitrose Kings Cross cookery school. The class aimed to offer a bonding experience as well as equip these young adults with essential culinary skills, promoting both independence and confidence.
During this hands-on session at the Kings Cross Cookery School, Waitrose chefs Alex and Mary guided participants through a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a flatbread from scratch.
Sharon White, Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said:“We are passionate about improving the lives of young care experienced people. That’s why we are running dedicated employability schemes, offering young people opportunities that, through no fault of their own, have been out of reach until now.
“This new ambition, as part of our Building Happier Futures programme, signals our commitment to help care experienced people gain skills and experience that sets them up in their careers.”
