Fit for work

This week is Scottish Apprenticeship Week, an opportunity to raise awareness of the opportunities of a modern apprenticeship for employers and young people. During an economic recession it is the most vulnerable who suffer the most.

We have a collective responsibility as a society to give them the opportunity to realise their full potential, but the rewards of getting these young people into work are well worth it.

Apprenticeship programmes have the potential to help address this problem and, at the same time, help businesses thrive, especially in the sectors where we are currently facing a skills shortage. 

One key grouping, however, which is adversely affected by the economic recession and youth unemployment, are those young people with additional support needs and care experience.

A greater holistic approach combining financial resources as well as targeted support is vital in assisting those in these categories to re-engage with education and training, ensuring they are ready to take up employment as well as while they are in employment.

However, the rewards of getting these young people, many of whom boast excellent skills, into work are well worth it, with higher loyalty and retention rates.

We would urge Scotland’s businesses to look beyond the label and look at the skills and talents of these individuals, 
especially as we mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition:

Sophie Dow

Mindroom

Tom McGhee

Spark of Genius

Duncan Dunlop

Who Cares? Scotland

Stuart Jacob

Falkland House School

Brian Durham

Young Foundations