A CHARITY has opened a sandwich shop to train young people to earn their own bread.

On a Roll opened in Church Walk, Banbury this week thanks to a £450,000 Big Lottery grant to the Banbury Young Homeless Project.

The funding will run out after five years and the shop will then be expected to stand on its own two feet.

More than 40 youngsters aged 16 to 25 who are not in work, education or training will undergo a six-week training course. A further six will work in the shop.

Apprentice David Reece, 16, said he hoped to train as a chef after completing the programme.

He said: “I think it’s a great idea.

“It gives young people training and experience to go out and get a job.

“I was out of work before I came here and since then I have been offered jobs.”

Emily Union, 20, said she had struggled when applying for jobs.

She said: “I think it’s an absolutely brilliant idea. It gives young people a chance to have a new experience and if they do want to get into catering it gives them a feel for it.”

The project is expected to train 380 youngsters in skills including food hygiene and basic finance during the next five years.

Catering manager Matt Parker said: “Catering is challenging, hard work requiring energy, skill and concentration; it’s also great fun, satisfying and a very popular career choice amongst young people in particular.

“BYHP’s On a Roll will develop all these qualities in its trainees and hopefully inspire them to pursue successful careers in the sector.

“They will be in the shop doing real work experience, customer service, selling and making sandwiches.”

Charity trustee Veronica Warner said: “Many young people, usually through no fault of their own, find themselves without the relevant qualifications or experience to get a first foot on the job ladder.

“Our 12-week training at BYHP’s On a Roll will provide essential skills and work experience help turn that difficult situation around.”

For more information call 01295 259442 or visit byhp.org.uk