A GREENOCK man who launched his career in hospitality through an unpaid placement project is now encouraging other jobseekers to do the same.

Fraser Martin, 20, landed a job at the Holiday Inn hotel in Greenock after impressing his boss during an eight week volunteer role organised by Jobcentre Plus.

The hotel has employed six young adults in a variety of roles through the programme, where young candidates volunteer to gain experience.

Fraser was claiming jobseeker’s allowance (JSA) when he attended an information session which saw Colin Moore, general manager of the hotel, give a talk.

Fraser, who is now working as a guest service assistant, said: “I was trying to get a job and Colin mentioned there was bar work involved at the hotel so I thought I’d give it a shot.

“I learnt a lot on the placement, working in the bar, kitchen and reception.

“It gave me a wide range of experience and I got told that if a position was available I would be kept on.

“I didn’t have any experience, so even if I didn’t get kept on I’d have a decent amount to put on my CV to make it better.” Colin was impressed with Fraser’s work and soon offered him a post, starting in June last year before he was later offered a full-time 40-hour contract.

Fraser added: “It’s worked out well for myself and I’m happy here — so people should give it a shot.” Hotel boss Colin said: “Fraser excelled during his eight weeks at the hotel and we offered him a full-time role.

“We have had around 15 people in on work placements, usually lasting eight weeks.

“We’ve managed to employ six in total — four as guest service assistants and two in housekeeping.

“It’s commendable that these young people are coming in on a voluntary basis.” Latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show that in July this year 1,907 people were claiming JSA in Inverclyde.

The area sits in eighth position among 32 local authorities in Scotland, with 3.7 per cent of its residents claiming.

Neighbouring Renfrewshire is in ninth position at 3.3 per cent while nearby North Ayrshire has the highest percentage of claimants in the country at five per cent.

Greenock Jobcentre Plus employer adviser Sharman Davis said: “We have an excellent relationship with Holiday Inn Express in Greenock and our close partnership working continues to benefit our young people.

“Fraser is a great example of this and has secured full-time employment as a result.” Jenny Dee, customer service operations manager, added: “A number of employers locally are offering work experience opportunities to young unemployed people, allowing them to gain the experience and skills they need to be successful in finding work”