Teenagers across England will soon have the opportunity to receive skills training at some of the country’s most prominent institutions, including the Premier League, Royal Shakespeare Company, and Channel 4. This initiative is part of a £45m government effort to support young people in gaining access to jobs or education. The goal is to ensure that “no young person is left behind” as the UK continues to navigate the economic challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The program, known as the “trailblazer” scheme, will be rolled out in eight regions, including Liverpool, Tees Valley, and the East Midlands. By partnering with key cultural and sporting organizations, the government aims to provide valuable work and training opportunities to teenagers who are not currently in education, employment, or training. This initiative is a crucial step in addressing the economic inactivity of nearly 1 million young people in the UK.
Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, emphasized the importance of empowering young individuals with the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in life. By collaborating with institutions that have a proven track record of supporting disadvantaged youth, the government hopes to create a pathway for young people to build a brighter future for themselves.
In addition to the skills training program, the government is set to introduce significant changes to the welfare system and out-of-work support. The aim is to increase employment rates and reduce the welfare bill, which has seen a surge in the wake of the pandemic. By implementing a “youth guarantee” that could potentially benefit up to 340,000 young people nationwide, ministers hope to catalyze a shift towards greater economic participation among the youth.
The Get Britain Working white paper, supported by £240m in funding, outlines a comprehensive strategy to address economic inactivity and create more job opportunities. With a focus on improving health outcomes and enhancing mental health support, the government is committed to ensuring that individuals are equipped to enter and thrive in the workforce. Jobcentres will be revamped into a new national jobs and careers service, offering personalized support and training to help individuals secure employment.
The government’s efforts to revamp the employment support system and provide tailored assistance to job seekers reflect a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals seeking work. By empowering local authorities and investing in targeted initiatives, the government aims to address the specific needs of different regions and communities across the UK.
As the UK grapples with the economic repercussions of the pandemic, these initiatives signal a proactive approach to supporting young people and enhancing workforce participation. By fostering partnerships with leading organizations and investing in skills training programs, the government is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and dynamic labor market. Through these collaborative efforts, young individuals will have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and pursue fulfilling career pathways, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
