FIESTA, the furniture and interior industry’s alliance aiming to develop skills, training and employment opportunities within the sector, has announced its commitment to The Kickstart Initiative.

Kickstart is a £2 billion government scheme designed to aid post-COVID regeneration by allowing employers to offer a six-month funded work placement aimed at young people aged 16-24 who are at risk of long-term unemployment.

It has linked the industry to The Apprenticeship Group, to make the process as streamlined as possible for employers.

Sponsored Video

Lauren Goodbrand of Kitchens International on winning the Kbsa Concept Designer Award 2024

Employers can now make use of FIESTA’s management specialists and systems and processes already in place.

Full administrative and payroll support will be offered, as well as  access to the industry’s team of trainers, developers and work coaches, making the experience easier to navigate.

FIESTA will support employers throughout the entire program and help look at all best routes and employment opportunities available for the participant throughout the duration and when the program finishes.

Bespoke British designer kitchen company, Roundhouse Design will be taking on a Kickstarter from within the program for six months of training within the brand, learning all aspects of kitchen design from its award-winning team.

The aim will then be to move on to a Level 3 apprenticeship as a Technical Assistant and then ultimately a home, kitchen, living spaces designer apprenticeship degree.

Founder of Roundhouse Design and Chairman of TKET, The Kitchen Education  Trust Craig Matson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce new talent whilst showcasing our industry to young people.

“We work in a thriving sector that is going from strength to strength and needs new talent and fresh ideas to continue on that trajectory.

“This is an excellent opportunity, with a huge amount of unrivalled support, for an employer to help pave the way for the furniture and interiors industry”.

Gary Baker, FIESTA chairman, said: “While the government’s Kickstart initiative is hugely exciting, we also recognise the time and effort required by an employer to sign up and commit to such a program.

“That is why we are delighted to be able to offer our support in all aspects, meaning businesses do not have to miss such a wonderful opportunity to help the next generation of talent progress in their career”.

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has recently joined FIESTA to help address education and training issues.