The London Irish Foundation is partnering with Slough Borough Council’s repairs, maintenance and investment service partner Osborne to help 'hard to reach' young people in the borough.

The HITZ programme is part of the Premiership Rugby National programme. It works with young people who are aged between 16 and 24 and not in education, employment or training.

The programme helps participants to gain recognised qualifications while also offering work experience at partnering companies.

Osborne has partnered with the London Irish Foundation HITZ programme to offer traineeships and work experience to the young people on the course.

Michelle Davies, Account Director at Osborne, said: “This is such a great opportunity to get involved with a scheme which is making a real difference to young people’s lives who have not flourished in the traditional education system for a variety of reasons.

“We can provide the practical element to their core learning skills. Our range of work experience throughout Osborne, from business management and customer service based at our Langley offices, to trade skills like plumbing and electricians who will go out on the road with our operatives means there is a great choice of roles.

"These young people are being given a chance to change their lives for whatever reason has led them to being helped by the London Irish Foundation HITZ programme.

“We are more than willing and delighted to get involved in this programme which effects real change for the good with young people.”

Cllr Mohammed Nazir, Slough Council cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: “This is a great programme which Osborne is partnering with.

“We hope that the offer of work experience will give these young people an insight into a working life and the confidence and skills needed to gain employment.”