The Fairer Futures Programme – Cooperatively supporting young people
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Published 25 Apr 2023 in Communities
This month sees the start of the Fairer Futures Programme. A brand new, work experience project based in our Walsall store for vulnerable young adults that are long-term unemployed. Partnering with Miss Macaroon, we are proud to mentor the next generation of retailers.
What’s happening?
Starting this month, the new work experience project begins in our Walsall store for vulnerable young adults that are long-term unemployed, in partnership with social enterprise, Miss Macaroon.
As part of the programme, we have had the chance to adapt existing practices as well as converting unused space to make the store into a modern working and learning environment. Something that has been warmly welcomed by our colleagues, members and customers in the local area.
Over the next three years, the programme will help to create opportunities to transform and empower the lives of 36 young people facing challenges with training and jobs. This combined with our trusted relationship with partners like Miss Macaroon, we are helping to change lives for the better.
As the programme kicks off, keep a lookout for the update video that will be premiered at our Fairer Living Festival & AGM on May 13th, showcasing the fantastic progress.
Who is Miss Macaroon?
Miss Macaroon is a social enterprise founded by Rosie Ginday based in Birmingham that produces premium macaroons and provides opportunities for young adults seeking a career and building confidence in themselves. To find out more about them including thoughts from the wonderful Alison Hammond click here.
Why Walsall?
This partnership is a cooperative solution because we’ve identified a store with some extra space, as well as an area with some extra needs. Collaboratively, working with a fantastic social enterprise to deliver social value to deserving people. It’s partnerships like these that we need to see more of because they bring the best of both worlds – holistic support and training from a social enterprise and the tangible fast-paced work environment of a store that leads to immense development for a trainee.
Supporting our local communities within our historic Walsall location
“The Partnership between Midcounties Co-op and Miss Macaroon is so unique. It is like nothing I've ever heard of before. With Walsall being one of the first areas to house a Co-op franchise in 1867, I feel it is only fitting that they are at the forefront of this remarkable partnership to help support young people in building up their confidence and self-worth, developing skills and behaviours to gain full- time work. This is community values at its best!” Rachel, Programme Manager
If you would like to discover more about Miss Macaroon click here.
