However, these early opportunities are becoming harder to find. Entry-level roles in hospitality have fallen, leaving many teenagers struggling to gain experience.
At LTC, we understand how important these early steps can be. We support families across the licensed hospitality community with practical advice, wellbeing support and financial assistance. Routine and connection can make a real difference to young people, particularly during key stages of their development.
That is why we are proud to highlight Lenny, a new job-matching platform helping 14 to 17-year-olds find their first hospitality role in Greater Manchester and Salford.
What is Lenny?
Lenny is a free job-matching platform created specifically for young people looking for their first role in hospitality.
The platform connects 14 to 17-year-olds with local hospitality businesses while protecting their personal information and involving parents at every stage.
Young people do not need a CV or any previous work experience to use Lenny.
How Lenny began
Charlotte Heyes, co-founder of NELL’S, gave her son a small Saturday shift. He folded pizza boxes, helped set up the restaurant and cleared tables.
Over time, he became more confident and comfortable around adults. When Charlotte opened a small number of roles to other teenagers, more than 1,500 young people applied within two weeks.
This response led to the creation of Lenny. The platform was built with safeguarding at its core and designed for young people applying for their first job.
How Lenny helps young people find hospitality jobs
Lenny offers:
- A simple way for young people to share when they are available to work.
- A protected profile that keeps personal information private.
- Parent approval at every stage.
- A clear overview showing operators a young person’s availability and location.
- Applications without a CV or previous experience.
- Free access for young people and hospitality businesses.
Hospitality operators already involved include Maray, The Alchemist, Burgerism and Dakota Hotels.
Why first jobs matter to LTC
Our work is rooted in caring for and supporting people across the licensed hospitality community. LTC transforms lives through health and wellbeing support, practical advice and financial assistance.
Positive early experiences of work can help young people feel more capable, confident and secure in themselves.
Even a small role can support wellbeing by providing routine, responsibility and a place to learn. For hospitality operators, welcoming young people into the team can strengthen workplace culture and create learning opportunities for both new and existing colleagues.
Information for parents and young people
If you know a teenager aged 14 to 17 who lives in Greater Manchester or Salford and is ready for their first job, Lenny provides a safe and supportive way to find local hospitality opportunities.
No previous experience or CV is required, and parents remain involved throughout the process.
Information for hospitality operators
If you run a hospitality venue in Greater Manchester or Salford, joining Lenny can help you connect with motivated local young people looking for their first job.
It also gives your business an opportunity to support the local community and introduce the next generation to hospitality.
Find out more about Lenny
Visit the Lenny website to learn more, create a profile or register your hospitality business.
