A helping hand onto the career ladder

Jokingaround Fancy Dress has reached out to unemployed teens who are struggling to find work due to a lack of experience.

The store, based in Upper Cross Street, Dewsbury, has been welcoming referrals from the Jobcentre for eight-week placements to offer a taste of life in the retail world.

Owner Jonathan Lodge said the scheme was helping 16-18 year olds who had been unemployed for at least six months.

He said the work experience teens had been packing, restocking, answering calls, serving customers and taking payments.

Jody Whitehead, 18, of Dewsbury Moor, has almost completed her placement.

Jonathan said: “She’s done really well, we’re really impressed with Jody.

“The two girls we have had so far have been really enthusiastic.”

Jody said the placement had piqued her interest in a career in retail and offered a different experience to being stuck at home and looking for work.

“I have got more confidence when talking to customers, I didn’t use to have that,” she said.

“I have enjoyed going out to work, I’m going to try and get more work experience.”

Jonathan said the placement scheme had been worthwhile.

He added: “I would definitely recommend it to other businesses.

“It’s helping the community get back into work and giving young people a chance to put something on their CVs.

“It’s their first step on the career ladder.”