School leavers face worst conditions since 1929
Monday, 17th August 2009
This summer’s school leavers could be the hardest hit since the crash of 1929, a report from the Prince’s Trust and University of Sheffield has warned.
The number of young people claiming Jobseekers Allowance is predicted to double - up to a million - if trends follow those of previous recessions.
The report, "The Prospects Of This Year’s School Leavers", warns that one in five young people collecting their GCSEs next week could be on the dole by the time they are 21, if trends are in line with the 1980s recession.
Those leaving school with no GCSEs are twice as likely to sign on as those with qualifications.
Professor Danny Dorling from the University of Sheffield said: "If the number of young people on the dole exceeds a million, this summer’s school leavers will be the hardest hit since the 1929 crash – with those without qualifications worst off.
"However, the rate of youth unemployment in the Recession to come will depend almost entirely on what opportunities young people are offered. This is why we must act now."
Martina Milburn, chief executive of youth charity The Prince’s Trust said: "It is more important than ever that we support those with fewest qualifications before they become a lost generation."
The report is released as The Trust announces new training opportunities in job sectors most likely to endure the Recession.
According to The Trust’s research, health and social care and some areas of hospitality are expected to remain stable and potentially experience growth in the Recession.
A series of new schemes is being launched by The Trust in response to the findings, developing more young people’s skills in these sectors.
