A group of young people from Cardiff gained skills and experience in hospitality on a course run in partnership between Glamorgan Cricket and youth charity The Prince’s Trust.
During the three-week Get into Hospitality programme, the young people received customer service training, gained qualifications and vital work experience. The course was funded by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.
James Corcoran, 25, was unemployed for over five years before taking part in The Prince’s Trust course. Shortly after finishing college, James suffered an illness which prevented him from moving into work.
During his recovery, he completed a number of short courses to stay productive but the severity of his condition and regularity of his hospital visits affected his ability to attend. As a result, he suffered anxiety and depression, and struggled to cope with everyday life. At times, James was so overwhelmed he found it difficult to walk down the street without feeling anxious.
James moved to Cardiff for a fresh start and the hope of finding work, but a lack of experience meant he wasn’t given the opportunities he needed to get his life on track. He took part in the Get into Hospitality course at Glamorgan Cricket and after the first day, immediately began to feel his confidence return. During the work experience placement, James was given the chance to prove he had the skills required to work in the hospitality industry. The staff at Glamorgan were very impressed with James’ attitude and he was offered a role working at the club after completing the course. Feeling optimistic about his future, James wants to continue working in hospitality while he is also looking into attending university to improve his skill set even further.
Rhian Mathias, Head of Employment and Enterprise at The Prince’s Trust Cyrmu said: “Unemployed young people often just need a chance to prove they have the talent required to get on the career ladder. As well as developing skills and providing experience, Get into programmes bridge the gap between employers and young job seekers. Congratulations to James on making the most of the opportunity and securing a positive outcome.”
Glamorgan CCC Chief Executive Hugh Morris said: "As a club, Glamorgan is committed to supporting our community. It is a pleasure for us to help local young people gain new skills and the self-belief they need to be successful in the next stage of their lives. The Prince’s Trust is a fantastic organisation and we look forward to working with them in the future.”
Youth charity The Prince’s Trust helps disadvantaged young people to get their lives on track. Three in four young people supported by The Prince’s Trust move into work, education or training. To find out more about the how The Trust can help you, call 0800 842 842 or visit www.princes-trust.org.uk