New panel of young people to shape employment support

A new panel of young people with experience of being out of education, employment and training will be formed to help shape employment and careers guidance policy.  

The Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel, made up of 17 young people aged 18 to 24, will regularly meet to discuss the biggest barriers they face to building their careers and advise what can be done to break these down.

It comes as the latest data shows one in eight young people are currently not in education, employment or training – demonstrating the urgent need for reform. 

Early insight from the panel has found that some of the most significant obstacles include mental health challenges and an overemphasis in school on UCAS applications instead of tailored careers advice, including alternative options like apprenticeships and training. Lack of public transport and access to digital tools and devices have also been raised as barriers.

All views shared in the panel meetings will go on to inform policy to ensure that the Youth Guarantee best serves young people.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:  “Young people know better than anyone the challenges they face – and the support they need to succeed.”

“That’s why their voices will shape how we will deliver a Youth Guarantee that truly works, opening up real opportunities for every 18-to-21-year-old to be in work, training or education.”

“Backed by our £45 million investment in targeted youth employment support, this is about unlocking potential, tackling inequality and transforming lives.”

Barry Fletcher, CEO, Youth Futures Foundation and Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO, Youth Employment UK said: “This partnership is about ensuring young people have a meaningful role in shaping the Youth Guarantee, and it’s encouraging that trailblazers are actively exploring how to do this locally.”

“Panel members are already highlighting barriers to education and employment and offering critical insights into the support young people need to succeed.”

“We look forward to continuing this work to build a system that works for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

The Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel has held some early sessions and will meet every six to eight weeks moving forward.