Sally Ann Kelly: Some would-be workers need a bit of extra help

SCOTTISH youth unemployment has risen again by 10 per cent. Across the UK, it is approaching one million – its highest level for 19 years. Barnardo’s Scotland is seriously concerned that a new generation of young people could be condemned to a life without work.

We welcome the government’s guarantee that all 16- to 19-year-olds will be offered education, training or a modern apprenticeship. But this must be an opportunity for all, ensuring that young people who are not ready for work or mainstream education can benefit.

The honest truth is thousands of disadvantaged young people are simply not in a position to take advantage of the opportunities. The young people we work with have issues such as a history of drug or alcohol misuse, homelessness, personal/family trauma, experience of the criminal justice system, or no formal education qualifications. Without targeted support and mentoring, no amount of training courses will actually lead to a job for them, and there is real a danger of a life of permanent unemployment.

There is also a particular issue in Scotland regarding those leaving care. At present over two-thirds of the 4,000 young people who have recently left care are not in employment, training or education. Learning and training programmes must recognise that some young people will have complicated needs as they make the transition into adulthood. Programmes need to include support with life skills such as budgeting, advice on health, housing and benefits to help them create an environment where they can remain in sustained employment.

Some need support with the most basic workplace requirements; something as simple as Barnardo’s Scotland buying them an alarm clock can make all the difference.

During the recent election campaign, all parties vowed to abolish youth unemployment. If the government is serious about delivering on its promises it is those furthest from the labour market they must reach out to, or the programmes will miss those who need most support.

• SallyAnn Kelly is acting director, Barnardo’s Scotland.