This approach to hiring will continue this spring across its stores and distribution centres, with the aim to break down barriers to employment for marginalised people.

The open-hiring scheme, originally launched at the end of 2021, is designed to open up work opportunities for marginalised people often excluded from work, a company statement said. Job applicants will only be asked three questions:

• Are you legally authorised to work in the UK?
• Can you lift up to 11kg?
• Can you work for up to eight hours in one shift?

The Body Shop will also eliminate background checks, screening and education requirements to fill these roles, in the hope it will encourage people who have previously faced difficulties in getting work to apply.

These groups include people who have previously been homeless, care leavers, young carers and the “racially minoritised”, the statement said. 

They have also teamed up with Movement to Work, who partner with charities such as Barnado’s, Carers Trust and Catch 22, to encourage people to apply.

The pilot scheme saw over 3,500 applicants through the new programme.

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