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A Wallasey café owner is helping teenagers get into the working world by offering them summer jobs, as reported by the Wirral Globe.
James Ellina, who runs Andy's Café in Wallasey on Seaview Road, has been employing a young person since last October and is encouraging other businesses across Wirral to do the same.
"It helps build their confidence and gives them a proper taste of the workplace," Mr Ellina said. "A good worker is someone who shows initiative. If you have that, you'll go a long way. I'm all for the next generation getting chances."
Mr Ellina took on his current teenage employee after meeting him and learning about his background. The cafe owner said he wanted to give him an opportunity because of his "difficult start in life", and when he met him, he asked him to come work at the cafe.
The teen has waited tables and taken on general serving duties, but not preparing food, as that is not permitted under child employment rules in the UK.
When describing the teenager, Mr Ellina said he is "fantastic with people" and talking to customers "comes naturally to him". He also recalled how the teen had never worked in a food environment before and learned a lot from his experience.
In the UK, children can start work at age 13 in some local councils, but they need permission from the local council. They can work in areas like television, theatre, and modelling too, but need a performance license. However, in regular part-time work, employers must follow regulations on permitted working hours, the type of work allowed, and safeguarding.
It is also important to note that during school holidays, 14-year-olds can work up to 25 hours a week, meaning a maximum of five hours on weekdays and Saturdays and a maximum of two hours on Sunday, while 15 and 16-year-olds can work up to 35 hours a week, with a maximum of eight hours Monday to Saturday, and two hours on Sunday.
Employers must apply for a permit before hiring under-16s. Full details on child employment regulations are available on the Wirral Council website, as well as GOV.UK.
