One of the city's most recognisable employers is backing a campaign to dramatically cut youth unemployment in the Norwich area.

Jarrold, which has its main store in London Street, is one of more than 30 businesses supporting Norwich For Jobs. Managing director Peter Mitchell said: '2013 is not a good time to be entering the job market for the first time, either as a school leaver or a graduate.

'I think we should be doing all we can to avoid the situation where there are people who have been in the job market for two years and have never had the opportunity to find employment. Something like Norwich For Jobs should be relevant to all employers in the city, particularly those who have a wider interest in the success of Norfolk and Norwich and the community in general.'

The company – which has the full spectrum of retail jobs based at its Norwich site from the shop floor to its directors – is not only pledging its support to the campaign but has also committed 10 full-time jobs and four apprenticeships which it will consider young people for. Mr Mitchell said that was on top of the company's existing work experience programmes which cover young people from school children to graduates.

Jarrold works with Norwich schools and has links with MINT and the probation service to help young people encountering particular barriers in their job search gain some vital experience. Often aimed at graduates, the scheme sees young people working part time on the shop floor while getting a feel for their chosen career through unpaid work experience.

'We're giving them the ability to earn some money and get work experience that can be hard to come by in those areas,' said the managing director.

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith, who leads the NFJ steering group, said: 'It is excellent to have a traditional Norwich name like Jarrold joining the campaign. I know they share everyone's desire to get young Norwich working.'

Norwich For Jobs is aiming to halve youth unemployment in the area by the end of 2014. See www.norwichforjobs.org.uk or email info@norwichforjobs.org.uk