Retail Trust | The only charity that looks after the needs of three million people working in retail.

Get creative and change your life

Ashleigh Ward, a 23 year old pop-up enthusiast, as one of the first applicants to sign up for the free 12-week pop-up programme explains: “I’ve been doing pop-up work in London for years and it has changed my life! It’s given me opportunities to turn disused empty spaces into creative, exciting, dynamic and live spaces. I’ve applied to take part in Retail Ready People to help use empty shops in the place where I live as it is something I am passionate about. I’d encourage as many 16-25 year olds in the area to get involved. This is a brilliant experience and will give us a chance to showcase our talents. Apply!”

With only two weeks left to apply for Retail Ready People, charities Retail Trust and vInspired are calling for 30 young people aged 16-25 living, working or studying in Enfield and Brighton to apply for the free 12 week skills and development programme and have the chance to set up and run a one month pop-up shop in one of the locations.

Mark Rudling Enfield Town Centre Manager, Enfield Business and Retailers Association  said: “Retail Ready People will provide a timely boost to the local area supporting young people, local employers and the community as a whole. It’s a fantastic initiative and we are really proud and honoured that Enfield has been chosen by Retail Trust and vInspired as one of the first locations. I would encourage everybody in the community to get involved.”

The programme is aiming to breathe new life into empty and disused shops while also giving unemployed young people the chance to develop the skills and confidence to get into retail. 

Councillor Del Goddard, Cabinet Member for Business and Regeneration said in a statement, "We're delighted to have been chosen as one of the two English towns to pilot a pop-up shop project and train young people in the skills needed to run a business. We are constantly seeking ways to help overcome youth unemployment and this is a welcome initiative. Enfield Council is committed to promoting and supporting businesses in the borough by working with Retail Trust and Enfield Business and Retailers Association to make this scheme a success. This innovative and exciting scheme will form part of wider efforts to make Enfield Town a more vibrant, viable and attractive town centre for everyone."

Find out much more and watch our new recruitment video here.

To get involved contact Laura Horsley lhorsley@retailtrust.org.uk or 020 8358 7223 / 07725 672 468.

Applications close on Monday 3 September 2012.