Businesses are providing inspiration to the future generation of workers through a series of talks organised by a Inspira.

We have teamed up with Ullswater Community College to launch its Lunchtime Talks series, inviting local businesses to talk to students in Years 10-12 about the many different careers available on their doorsteps.

The talks have been organised as part of our The Link initiative which encourages Cumbrian SMEs to work with young people across the county to help them understand the world of work.

A total of 17 Cumbrian businesses have signed up for the series which involves a short presentation on careers and training opportunities, followed by a question and answer session.

Mark Bowman, Inspira’s chief executive, said: “As an organisation, we are passionate about helping people into employment, and working with young people to inspire them on their pathways to successful careers.

“The students hearing first-hand how they can gain jobs or work experience with such a wide range of interesting businesses in their area helps inspire them to think more about their futures.

“We’re very grateful to all the businesses who are dedicating their precious time to support local teenagers, and it’s been pleasing to see how engaged and interested the students have been in the sessions.”

Penrith-based housebuilder Genesis Homes is one of the 17 companies which has signed up to the Lunchtime Talks sessions, and will speak to students on November 23.

The company has forged relationships with schools and colleges across Cumbria as part of its commitment to support young people into employment. Genesis Homes currently has a number of apprentices working at the business, and staff are also encouraged to upskill through ongoing training initiatives.

Katy Aris, Group Marketing Executive at Genesis Homes, said: “We are always exploring ways to support young people and highlight job and training opportunities in the sector, and we are looking forward to getting in front of the students to highlight pathways into the construction industry.

“This is a great opportunity to promote the many roles within the sector, whether on site labouring or working in the office in accounts or marketing, and we hope to inspire young people to take the next steps into an interesting career.”

In addition to Genesis Homes, the other participating businesses are the NHS, Gen2, Lloyd Motor Group, Cubby Construction, the Westmorland Group, Center Parcs, the Army, Cumbria Police, North Lakes Hotel, GKM Solicitors, WSP, Marsh Commercial, Persimmon Homes, DNV Spadeadam, Lloyd Ltd and System People.