We’re thrilled to announce that recruitment is officially open for Cohort 8 of the FareChance Employability Programme — and we’re also launching an exciting new 4-week pilot programme. Both are designed to support young people aged 18–25 who are looking to gain skills, experience, and confidence to move into employment, training, or further education.
Please see below for full details of both opportunities:
- FareChance 8-Week Employability Programme
Dates: June 30 – August 18, 2025
Location: FareShare Warehouse, Vale Lane, Bedminster, South Bristol
This programme offers a rich, hands-on learning experience within a working food warehouse, designed to empower young people to become more employable and confident.
Programme Includes:
- Hands-on warehouse logistics training — including picking, packing, stock control, and food safety
- Weekly group sessions focusing on teamwork, confidence-building, and workplace expectations
- CV and interview skills support
- A Career Away Day to explore different industries and roles
- 1:1 mentoring and progress reviews
Participants Gain:
- Practical skills relevant to warehousing, logistics, and retail
- Improved confidence and readiness for work
- A contribution to reducing food waste and supporting communities across the Southwest
Ideal for: Young people not in education, employment, or training who are ready to engage and grow over an 8-week period.
Limited to 8 participants — referrals will be considered on a first-come, first-reviewed basis.
2. NEW: FareChance 4-Week Pilot Programme
Dates: June 30 – July 24, 2025
This shorter, intensive pilot is designed for young people who are almost work-ready but unable to commit to the full 8 weeks.
Programme Highlights:
- Join the first 4 weeks of the main FareChance Programme
- Attend weekly ‘FareChance Take-Over’ sessions every Thursday in warehouse logistics
- Up to four employability workshops across Mondays and Tuesdays, covering:
- CV writing
- Interview skills
- Job search strategies
- A Career Away Day for exposure to potential employers
- One-to-one guidance to identify personal goals and next steps
Ideal for: Young people with some work-readiness, looking to boost their CVs and develop confidence with structured support.
Only 2 participants per cohort. Early expression of interest is recommended.
Referral & Application Process:
Who Can Apply:
Both programmes are designed for young people aged 18–25 who are facing barriers to employment, training, or education — whether that’s lack of confidence, experience, qualifications, or opportunity.
Please refer to the FareChance Referral Criteria document attatched to confirm eligibility.
How to Apply:
- Complete the organisation risk assessment/referral form
- Submit by: June 10, 2025
Additional step for 4-week pilot applicants:
Please include a short cover letter (or support the young person to write one), addressing:
- Why they want to join FareChance
- A career or employment goal they’re working toward
- What kind of support they need to take their next step
Send to: farechance@faresharesouthwest.org.uk
Deadline: June 10, 2025
Taster Sessions:
Selected applicants will be invited to taster sessions between June 16 – 27, 2025, giving them the chance to meet the team, explore the warehouse, and decide whether FareChance is a good fit.
We’re proud to offer these programmes as part of our commitment to youth development, inclusion, and meaningful social impact. If you know a young person who might benefit, we would be grateful if you could pass this on or support them to apply.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming our next group of young changemakers!
