Wiltshire-based energy management and reduction specialist SMARTech energy have welcomed their first Kickstart recruit as a part of the Government’s drive to create new jobs for 16-24 year olds who are on Universal Credit and are at risk of long-term unemployment.

Joshua Wallace, 21, has been hired to gain experience across the business in marketing, sales, business administration and stock control.

Joshua, from Chippenham, said “I have been out of work for five months and felt that this would be a great way for me to get back into a working environment.

"Due to being out of work for so long, I would like to gain further work experience as well as improving my office-based work skills; such as administration, communication and team-building skills”.

SMARTech energy are offering six month paid placements, working 25 hours a week across marketing, energy consultancy and administration.

Stuart Pearce, managing director of SMARTech energy said: “Kickstart is a superb scheme which has enabled the company to provide work opportunities for young people in the local area. Joshua has already shown great potential and subject to review, all Kickstart placements will have the chance to move into full-time positions once the initial 6 month contract ends”.