Southern Co-op colleague shines through Youth Employment Scheme in Portsmouth
Southern Co-op is shining a spotlight on one of its newest colleagues, Cody Bell, as part of its ongoing commitment to helping young people kickstart their careers in retail through its Youth Employment Scheme.
Twenty-one-year-old Cody, who is part of the team at the Tregaron store in Portsmouth, has quickly become a standout example of how the initiative can open doors for new talent, while helping them build confidence and practical skills.
After spending time away from education, Cody was looking for a positive next step and was drawn to Southern Co-op’s Youth Employment Scheme. Established last year, the programme is run in partnership with Havant Borough Council and Enable Ability, and offers nine young people paid roles in a store environment each year while fostering their personal and career development.
Following their completion of the scheme, each cohort of participants are celebrated in a graduation event, with this year’s iteration set to take place in March 2026.
Since joining the team of 15 at the Tregaron store, Cody has thrown himself into his training while getting to know his colleagues and customers and has completed multiple eLearning modules.
In the months ahead, Cody’s mentor and store manager Mike Ryall, who also participated in the scheme, will be guiding him through additional training, helping him to develop his skills and grow his confidence on the shop floor.
Mike Ryall, Store Manager at Southern Co-op Tregaron, said: “From day one, Cody has been motivated to do his best and has fit into our store team effortlessly. His energy, curiosity and willingness to get involved have made guiding him through his training easy and we’re all looking forward to seeing where his role takes him.
“Having begun my career in retail via the Youth Employment Scheme a few years ago, it’s brilliant to help someone else grow in the same way. I know exactly how much confidence it can give you when someone believes in you, so being able to pass that on to Cody has been really rewarding.”
Cody said: “Joining the scheme has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. Before becoming part of the Southern Co-op team, I wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to go in with my career, but the Youth Employment Scheme has given me a fresh start. I’ve learnt so much already and I’m excited to keep building my skills with the support of my colleagues.”
Hannah Haynes, Economic Development Officer at Havant Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Southern Co-op on this year’s iteration of their Youth Employment Scheme and are proud to have supported 17 young people since it launched in 2024.
“Cody is a brilliant example of the skills that can grow when the right support is in place.”