Tour de France jobs help for young people welcomed by Council Leader

Midlothian Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry, is encouraging young people across the county to take advantage of a unique employability opportunity linked to the Tour de France, which will pass through Midlothian in July 2027.

For 18-25-year-olds

The Readiness to Work programme, launched as part of the Tour’s Grand Départ GB, will give 18- to 25-year-olds the chance to gain valuable real-world experience by volunteering at one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

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Global sporting moment

With the Tour de France set to depart from Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, Midlothian will be part of a global sporting moment—bringing with it opportunities for local people to develop skills, build confidence and connect with future employers.

Key employability skills

Delivered by British Cycling, the programme combines hands-on volunteering with training in key employability skills such as CV writing, interview techniques, resilience and personal development. Participants will also benefit from mentoring and support to help translate their experience into future job opportunities.

Investing in young people's future

Councillor Kelly Parry said: “The Tour de France coming through Midlothian in 2027 is an incredible opportunity—not just to showcase our communities on a global stage, but to invest in the future of our young people.

Encourage young people to sign up

“I would strongly encourage young people across Midlothian to sign up for the Readiness to Work programme. It offers a unique chance to be part of a historic event while gaining practical skills, confidence and experience that can open doors to employment.

First step

“We know many young people are eager to get into work but need that first opportunity. This programme helps bridge that gap and ensures the benefits of hosting the Tour are felt right here in our communities.”

Wide range of sectors

Around 300 young volunteers will take part in the programme, gaining experience across a range of sectors including event management, sport, marketing and professional services.

UK youth work report

The initiative comes when recent UK government commissioned reports have stated that one million young people are not in education, employment or training, and among 24-year-olds, 45% have never had a job, yet 80% want to work.

Wider social impact programme

It forms part of the JOY wider social impact programme designed to ensure the Tour de France leaves a lasting legacy—supporting skills development, community engagement and opportunities for local people.