Employees at United Biscuit’s (UB) KP Teesside factory have helped unemployed young people with advice on career opportunities in food manufacturing.

KP Teesside’s factory manager Mark Duffy and three employees spoke to individuals taking part in The Prince’s Trust’s team programme at Stockton Riverside College. The youth charity’s 12-week personal development course helps young people develop the skills and confidence to find work.

Duffy, who talked to students about UB’s products, production processes and different types of jobs available in the factory, said: “At a time when youth unemployment is running at over one million, it is more important than ever that we look to help and assist young people as they look to progress into the world. Many are unaware of what opportunities there are and indeed what to expect in a work environment.

”In many ways, it is about building people’s confidence, but also getting them to understand that there are no easy rides these days and they have to work at it if they want to get on. We are looking to assist them on their first step up the ladder.”

The group also heard first-hand accounts from employees about experiences of working in a snacks factory, with members of KP Teesside’s HR team and managers from within the business, helping individuals with job applications.

UB offered mock interview sessions for factory job roles, in addition to advice on job-hunting, application form writing and CV preparation.  

Youth charity The Prince’s Trust works with 13- to 30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. It offers practical and financial support, while developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation.