Thomas Prout knows what it's like to struggle finding work after university. Like tens of thousands of graduates across the country, he found himself in that all-too-familiar situation - qualified, eager, but struggling to land a suitable role.

Rather than accept it, he decided to do something about it. The result is Prout's Recruitment, a Pembrokeshire-based business connecting local employers with local job seekers, with a particular focus on helping young people into work.

"I started Prout's Recruitment because unemployment is rising and I was in the same situation when I finished university," said Thomas. "With this business I want to help both businesses and job seekers find what they need.”

Thomas has teamed up with Pembrokeshire College to tap into local talent and help bridge the gap between education and employment. The partnership gives businesses access to young people ready to enter the workforce, while giving students and graduates a clearer pathway into local roles.

"Pembrokeshire has so much to offer, particularly in hospitality and tourism," said Thomas. "These industries are the backbone of our local economy, but businesses often struggle to find reliable, local staff. At the same time, we have young people right here who are ready to work - we just need to connect the two.”

Prout's Recruitment offers a range of services for businesses, from job board postings and social media advertising packages through to full recruitment solutions including interviewing and screening candidates. For job seekers, Thomas offers free initial meetings, CV and cover letter advice, interview tips, and even help planning travel routes for those relying on public transport.

The focus is firmly on hyperlocal recruitment - no more sifting through applications from candidates miles away, and no more job seekers having to relocate or travel long distances for work.

"I want to help communities thrive and build employment within these communities," said Thomas. "Businesses shouldn't have to increase their financial burden when advertising for employees, and job seekers shouldn't have to look far from home to find the right opportunity.”

Prout's Recruitment has also signed up to the Equality Pledge, committing to zero tolerance of discrimination, harassment or bullying, and the Green Growth Pledge, with plans to conduct 75% of initial meetings online to reduce unnecessary travel and carbon emissions.

Thomas may not have decades of experience behind him, but he's putting his university work ethic to good use - and he's got big ambitions for the future, with a vision of expanding the hyperlocal model across the UK.

For now, though, his focus is firmly on Pembrokeshire.