The mayor launched his Youth Employment Plan shortly after coming into office in May 2024, making the issue of youth unemployment one of his top priorities.

He set a target to work with businesses to create 20,000 placements by the end of his first term in office.

Now, the mayor has pledged to step up action and get even more young people into work.

He said: “We know that youth unemployment is one of the biggest challenges facing our region, and the response from businesses to create these placements has been nothing short of phenomenal.

"By working together in this way, we've created thousands of real opportunities for our young people, helping to give them the best possible start in life.

“Employers have shown they understand the importance of opening their doors to provide meaningful placements and training that can prepare young people for the future. It also ensures they have a pipeline of upcoming talent to tap into.

“Work experience helps young people identify their strengths and get ready for the world of work. I want to continue pulling together to tackle unemployment in this region and give our young people the chance to realise their potential.”

One of the 20,000 young people to benefit from the placements is Summer Osborne, aged 21 from Erdington.

She has been on a commis chef apprenticeship for the last 16 months at Birmingham City Football Club, developing skills through hands-on experience and learning. Summer was supported into work through Xcelerate by Edgbaston – Compass Group UK & Ireland’s regional skills hub.

The role has even given her the opportunity to work alongside celebrity chefs Glynn Purnell, Tom Kerridge, and Aktar Islam.

Summer said: “I came onto the programme not knowing what to expect, but it ended up changing everything.

“It helped me discover something I genuinely enjoy, gave me the chance to prove myself and finally find a job where I can see a future.”

After being on Universal Credit for 18 months, Amia Fishley from Ladywood, Birmingham, was introduced into the Path 2 Apprenticeship via Pathway Group and now works at Edgbaston Stadium.

Amia, aged 19, said: “I've gone from doubting myself to competing in culinary competitions and proving to myself what I'm capable of. Sometimes all someone needs is one opportunity and one person who believes in them.”

Through its classroom to careers programme, Compass Group UK & Ireland is investing in earlier, preventative intervention with schools and colleges, introducing young people into meaningful work experience to reduce the risk of them becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training).

Jonathan Foot, director of skills & early careers, Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “At Compass, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential, regardless of their background or starting point.

“Hospitality offers accessible routes into work, helping people build confidence, develop transferable skills and progress into rewarding long-term careers.”