The numbers of young people out of work in the UK have reached new highs – with young people accounting for nearly two-thirds of job losses since the pandemic, according to official figures. Of all 16- to 24-year-olds who are currently unemployed, 74% have been unemployed for at least six months. Youth work helps young people stay involved in their communities, for group activities and individual support that creates a sense of belonging, not despair,” Middleton said. “There’s nearly half a million fewer young people in work than a year ago,” said Laura-Jane Rawlings, the chief executive of Youth Employment UK. It argues for more wraparound support for employment services, including youth workers as part of new Jobcentre Plus youth hubs.

Source: The Guardian March 23, 2021 11:15 UTC