New employment scheme launched to support jobseekers into the hospitality sector

A new employment and training programme has been announced to help upskill jobseekers to access career opportunities in the hospitality sector.

The Hospitality Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) is being launched by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in collaboration with UK Hospitality to provide tailored training for those out-of-work to move into a career in the sector.

Participation will allow benefit claimants to complete qualifications and accredited training in areas such as health and safety, food safety, licensing, and conflict resolution to add to their Hospitality Skills Passport, a digital pass to share with prospective employers to showcase their skills. The programme will also give participants a guaranteed job interview on completion.

The scheme, which will be piloted in the North-west in Liverpool before being rolled out nationwide, aims to help support the hospitality sector address labour shortages – currently the industry has around 120,000 unfilled vacancies across the country.

Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP said:

“This innovative collaboration between DWP and UKHospitality is a national first and underscores our commitment to work with industry to address challenges, fill vacancies and grow the economy.

“The standardised and industry backed Hospitality Skills Passport will help bridge the gap for those looking for work in the hospitality sector, helping jobseekers to boost their skills and kickstart their careers.”

Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive, UKHospitality said:

“Hospitality is a fantastic sector that offers a diverse variety of career opportunities, which is why it’s so well suited to helping people back into work. We’re delighted to be partnering with the Government to help run this exciting programme, which we hope can be a real positive for both jobseekers and businesses.“