JCT600 has seen 20 of its dealership managers become trained mentors as part of a commitment to supporting young people through a partnership with the Prince’s Trust.

Managers from its Bradford head office and from across the company’s 50 dealerships completed two days of training covering what the Prince’s Trust does and how each of its programmes – designed to improve the prospects of jobless 13 to 30-year-olds – works.

Among the skills they developed was the ability to help others prepare college applications or CVs; practicing interview skills or simply coaching them about how to behave in a work environment.

JCT600 colleagues may also act as ‘business mentors’, working with a designated young person who has received funding from The Prince’s Trust to set up a business and advising them  on all aspects of being self-employed.

Katie Saunders, HR director for JCT600, said: “Our colleagues are really excited about being able to get involved in this way. 

“A big part of our decision to partner with The Prince’s Trust was based on the opportunity for our colleagues not only to share their skills with vulnerable young people, but also to gain personal development by giving back to the community in this way as well as through our traditional fundraising activities.

“We’re proud that our first 20 JCT600 mentors will get to work with The Trust this autumn and hope that a further five will complete their training in October; our target is that they will support over 20 young people in the next 12 months.”

JCT600 has taken on more than 100 apprentices over the last three years. 

The company was also this year named in the Sunday Times ‘Best 100 Companies to Work For’ list in recognition of its outstanding levels of employee engagement.

Paul Rose, chair of The Prince’s Trust development committee in Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “Supporting a young person to set their own goals during a time of transition is often vital to their success so it’s fantastic to see the staff at JCT600 get involved at this grassroots level. 

“It’s just one of many ways the group are supporting us to reach thousands more disadvantaged young people across the North.”

The Prince’s Trust, which marks its 40th anniversary this year, helps young people get their lives on track. 

Many of the young people helped by The Trust are in or leaving care, facing issues such as homelessness or mental health problems, or they have been in trouble with the law. 

The Trust’s programmes give vulnerable young people the practical and financial support needed to stabilise their lives, helping develop self-esteem and skills for work. 

Three in four young people supported by The Prince’s Trust move into work, education or training.