Carcraft aims to drive down youth unemployment with apprenticeship scheme in Rochdale

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Youth unemployment continues to be an issue for the UK, with over 1.07 million 16-24 year olds out of work. Now the country’s leading used car supermarket is offering a helping hand to local people looking to start a career in the motor industry.

Carcraft has pledged to drive Britain’s automotive industry forward and youth unemployment down through an industry leading apprenticeship scheme that provides on-the-job training for young people. The scheme, which enables recruits to earn as they learn, offers opportunities in a variety of areas including finance, vehicle service and customer services departments.

Robin Bridge, Chief Executive Officer at Carcraft commented: “We’re very proud of our apprenticeship scheme; since 2011 we’ve been fortunate enough to help young people to enter the motoring industry, while training the next generation of our own expert staff. Throughout 2014 we’re hoping to support even more young people looking to enter the industry through a number of initiatives, including a college donation scheme that will see Carcraft deliver old vehicles to local colleges for student training purposes.”

Joshua Chaplin, a vehicles sales apprentice at Carcraft Rochdale added: “At a time when many people my age are struggling to find work, this scheme is a really good way to start a new career. I’m currently in the first year of my apprenticeship and I’m already seeing how my skills and confidence are developing.”

Carcraft already has over 20 apprentices training at its 11 sites across the country. The apprentice scheme is just one of the initiatives Carcraft is currently running in an effort to support the local communities surrounding its showrooms. Over the course of 2014 the retailer will also be supporting local charities, causes and community groups in each region it operates in, via a range of fundraising activities.