Introducing the KFC Hatch employability programme

Young people are at the heart of KFC – on either side of the counter. So we’re really proud to have created Hatch, a youth employability programme run with UK Youth.

Hatch is here to support young people who’ve faced employment barriers to land their first job. It’s an amazing opportunity for 16–24-year-olds to develop skills and kick-start their careers.

Tackling the youth unemployment rate

Many of our most loved KFC meals are made for sharing. But all too often, young people aren’t getting a fair share of skills development opportunities.

According to September 2023 stats from the Office for National Statistics, the UK youth unemployment rate stands at 12.7%, compared to 4.3% for the nation as a whole. 

We can do better. If we’re going to get serious about creating jobs for young people, we need to walk the walk.

Hatch is here 

Every young person deserves a fair shot at getting their first job. The Hatch employability programme is about opening doors to young people and unlocking the life-changing power of a first job. And it means laying the foundations for young people to build a network, grow their contact book and walk tall. 

As the restaurant of choice for millions of young people, KFC can play a unique role in empowering young people at the start of their career.

Young people have always backed KFC, so now it’s our turn to back them.

So building on the success of Hatch, we’ve hatched another plan…

Career help is on the way

If like us, you’re passionate about helping young people unlock their potential, learn how you can get involved with Hatch and The Kentucky Club.

We believe every young person who wants a job should be able to get one. And by 2030, our aim is that a third of all new KFC hires will be young people who’ve faced barriers to employment.

Every journey starts somewhere, and even the most resilient of young candidates needs to hear those four magic words: “you’ve got the job”. By joining us on our journey, you can help young people take their first step on the career ladder and ensure there’s no limit to how far they’ll climb.

Announcing The Kentucky Club

We’re stepping up our game and launching The Kentucky Club – an inclusive members club for 16-24-year-olds from all backgrounds and walks of life. It’s a brilliant chance for young people to get the skills development, confidence and connections to land their first job. We’re thrilled to provide exclusive access to top-quality industry training by the Bauer Academy, in partnership with KFC.

From building essential skills to boosting confidence, our workshops cover professional development, CV writing, interview skills, and more. There is also the chance to explore media careers and sharpen digital skills to stand out to employers.