Marks & Spencer is offering 360 work placements to 16-24 year olds as part of the government's Kickstart scheme.

The retailer said it will deliver two cohorts of 180 placements - in April and June this year, as reported by Retail Gazette.

The Kickstart scheme provides funding for new job placements for 16-24 year-olds who are on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Successful applicants will join as trainee customer assistants across M&S's departments, including clothing, home, Foodhalls, in-store cafes and stockrooms.

The roles will be available across the UK, and Kickstart trainees will be paid in line with current pay levels. Once the programme is finished, Marks & Spencer will support trainees to apply for permanent positions, where available.

Applications for the April cohorts are now open at Jobcentre Plus offices across the UK.