Travelodge has launched a new recruitment programme targeting parents looking to get back into work.

The company said it is able to offer jobs with hours that fit around the school run, a work buddy and access to management training.

The programme is designed to help attract some of the two million or more unemployed parents into hospitality.

It is part of Travelodge’s plans to open 100 hotels over the next five years, which will create up to 3,000 new jobs.

The low-cost chain also sees the scheme as way to replace European staff who depart following the UK’s potential departure from the EU.

It comes at a positive time for the company.

Travelodge earlier said revenue climbed 8.8 per cent to £694 million in the year to December 31st, while adjusted earnings grew £9.6 million to £122 million.

Jobs will be available across the company’s hotels and head office – including roles in reception, restaurants, housekeeping as well as flexible hours in head office roles. 

To design this new initiative, Travelodge commissioned a survey with YouGov to gain further insight into the challenges unemployed mums and dads are currently facing.

Key findings revealed that 86 per cent of unemployed parents would like to return to work.

However, 59 per cent of parents reported that the scarcity of jobs with flexibility around the school run was the biggest challenge to finding work. 

Peter Gowers, Travelodge chief executive, said: “Travelodge is growing quickly, and we want to unlock the potential of Britain’s mums and dads as they return to work.

“Hospitality can offer a great career for parents, with jobs close to home, hours that can match the school run, benefits that suit families and a path into management.”

“We are preparing in earnest for post-Brexit Britain.

“With thousands of new jobs to fill, we need more new colleagues than ever. 

“We see vast untapped potential in parents who want to return to work. 

“YouGov research shows that many parents want to get back into a job, especially one that can lead to a career, and the first step is often the hardest.”