A Moray cashmere specialists has been recognised for its commitment to employing young people.
Johnstons of Elgin was awarded the Investors in Young People (IIYP) accreditation in a ceremony attended by Moray MP Angus Robertson.
Mr Robertson said: “Achieving Investors in Young People accreditation for Johnstons really means marrying the traditional with the modern – the traditional weaving skills that are to be found in their iconic woollen mill, delivered through modern apprenticeships by enthusiastic young people building their career.
“The award marks both the commitment of the more than 80 young apprentices and the commitment of Johnstons as their employer to giving them the best opportunities and getting the best from them in return.”
The IIYP scheme is supported by £1 million funding from the Scottish Government. Offered to all businesses across Scotland, the award recognises and supports organisations in the employment
of young people.
Beth Pickup, 17, began working in the coffee shop at Johnstons nine months ago and began as an HR apprentice this week.
She said: “I started out on the weekends just to make a bit of money and was going to go to university, but then I saw this opportunity, took it and now it’s a full-time career.
“There’s so many people my age that don’t know what they are going to do, so to get work experience before beginning university is great experience.”
Willie Wood, Group HR director at Johnstons of Elgin, said: “I am extremely proud that Johnstons of Elgin has been able to lead the way in providing modern apprenticeship programmes.
“Youth employment is a key pillar of our business plan and I am delighted that our work in this area has been recognised in this way.”