Global drinks maker Diageo has launched a free training scheme in Scotland to help tackle unemployment.
Diageo has launched the scheme in Scotland following success in improving the employability of thousands of people in Latin America and the Caribbean. It has invested £5m in the Scottish programme.
200 trainees are due to form the first cohort on the scheme which will initially focus on courses in bartending and hospitality.
Other courses will follow in retail, manufacturing and entrepreneurship.
Diageo is particularly keen to build skills that will help people find employment during the upcoming Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games.
As well as teaching industry specific skills Diageo’s courses will enhance life skills and work ethics.
The programme is about building confidence as well as skills according to Jane Richardson, Diageo’s corporate relations director.
Diageo is delivering the programme with charity partner Springboard UK, which will recruit applicants aged 16 and up though Jobcentre Plus.
Diageo will fund and deliver the six-week training, and provide mentors and work experience placements for each participant.
