ERSA response to Labour’s announcement on youth unemployment

In response to today’s announcement by Labour, which outlines plans to up-skill young people and manage the welfare budget,  ERSA welcomes the idea behind the youth allowance to prevent young people from becoming long term unemployed by focusing on a positive work related allowance that is not associated with unemployment.

However, the success of this initiative depends on tailoring the support to young people’s individual circumstances and ensuring the definition of skills encompasses softer skills such as life coaching or increased confidence.

This focus by Labour on skills is strongly welcomed but should not be considered the only type of support a young person may need help with in their journey into employment.

Kirsty McHugh, ERSA, Chief Executive, said:

“Any measure to support young people to increase their skills is welcome. However,  all young people are different and, in implementing this policy, Labour would need to make sure that there was sufficient flexibility of provision to make sure all young people could benefit.”