I spent a fantastic morning at Derby College Group’s inclusive jobs fair at Broomfield Hall today, which brought together employers, charities, training providers, and community organisations from across Derbyshire. It was a brilliant opportunity to launch the results of my recent youth survey, which I held towards the end of last year.
The results show that many young people are optimistic about the opportunities available to them, and believe they can make a career out of something they love. However, when looking at potential barriers, a lack of work experience and lack of local contacts and networks were common themes.
I asked people aged 15-25 to name the single biggest challenge facing young people today. Almost half said it was the cost of living, describing difficulties saving up to buy or even rent, because their wages do not go far enough to pay for everyday things. I am pleased the government has increased the minimum wage, and is set to remove the wage band for younger people, making life more affordable.
The government is also incentivising employers to take on young people – essential for them to break into the world of work.
Events like job fairs are really important for young people just starting their careers to find local work experience, explore careers in fields they care about, and meet people who have already succeeded in their field.
Jon Collins, the Assistant Principal of Land Based courses at Derby College Group, showed me round the jobs fair. Unusually, the college does a Reverse Jobs Fair, where students lead conversations with employers, sharing their skills and aspirations, and explore real paid employment opportunities in an inclusive environment.
I am keen to take action on the issues that young people raised to me in my survey, making life more affordable for young people and helping break down barriers to opportunities. I will keep you updated.
Please take a look at the results here: https://shorturl.at/j5QD7