Tens of thousands of new work experience and training placements across sectors from construction to hospitality will be offered to young people as part of efforts to address youth unemployment, according to reports. The 300,000 placements over three years are supported by major employers including Manchester and Gatwick airports, said Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden. The opportunities, also covering health and social care, will extend nationwide. They follow a report highlighting risks of a lost generation, with the number of 16 to 24-year-olds not in employment, education or training exceeding one million. Former cabinet minister Alan Milburn, who led the review, noted that insufficient work experience remains the main barrier cited by young people seeking jobs. The report stated that work experience provision is often an afterthought in schools, leaving those without strong networks at a disadvantage. It described the first step on the career ladder as thinned and out of reach for many, creating a situation where employers require experience that opportunities have reduced. The placements will include both work experience and Sector-based Work Academy Programmes, which offer short training, workplace exposure and a job interview for benefit claimants. Last night Milburn indicated support for adjusting the national living wage structure to aid youth employment. Labour’s manifesto pledged to make the minimum wage a genuine living wage, adjust the Low Pay Commission remit to consider living costs, and remove age-based differences so all adults receive the same rate. The TUC warned against lowering wages for younger workers. Pensions minister Torsten Bell stated on the Today programme that the manifesto commits to aligning rates over time through Low Pay Commission advice, without a fixed parliamentary deadline, while maintaining employment levels.
