Imagine being told that simply finding a job is a skill in itself. That's the reality for many young people today, as highlighted by a Wolverhampton teenager named Tristan. But is this a sign of a deeper problem? Let's delve into Tristan's story and explore the challenges faced by young people trying to enter the workforce.
Josh Sandiford reports from Wolverhampton on the experiences of Tristan, a 17-year-old who describes himself as an "Art-o-holic." Tristan is a regular at The Way Youth Zone in Wolverhampton, where he spends much of his time in the art room, passionately working on his latest artistic creations. He's currently enrolled in an art course at the City of Wolverhampton College and dreams of a future career creating children's books and comics. "I have a universe in my head, I just have to get it out somehow or someway," he shared with the BBC, expressing the burning creative energy within him.
The Way Youth Zone has been instrumental in helping Tristan express himself and build confidence. "Before I was more closed in," he explains, "I tended to go to the activities I enjoyed but I didn't really speak to people as much. It allows me to be myself. I'm not trying to hide myself and keep a shade over me." This newfound confidence has spurred Tristan to seek a part-time job to gain valuable work experience.
Tristan's story comes at a crucial time, as the government is renewing its focus on NEETs – young people Not in Employment, Education, or Training. The numbers are staggering: nearly a million 16 to 24-year-olds fall into this category. To address this challenge, the government has announced plans to create 50,000 youth apprenticeships over the next three years. But will this be enough? And is it truly addressing the root causes of youth unemployment?
"Some of my friends in secondary [school] were doing jobs as well and said it was quite hard to find one," Tristan adds, echoing a sentiment shared by many young people. "They were saying it's a whole skill to find a job. But they did end up finding one in the end and doing pretty good." This highlights a critical point: the job search process itself can be a significant hurdle for young people, requiring skills and knowledge that aren't always readily available. Resume writing, interview techniques, and networking – these are all essential skills that many young people need help developing.
During the BBC's visit, The Way Youth Zone was a hive of activity. Young people were engaged in various activities, from playing games to enjoying the hot meals provided seven days a week. In a quieter space upstairs, volunteers from Jaguar Land Rover's (JLR) Wolverhampton factory were running an engine workshop, offering young people hands-on experience and a glimpse into the world of engineering. This initiative is part of a larger partnership between the JLR Foundation and OnSide, the youth center's parent organization, which includes a £250,000 investment in the youth center. The goal, according to JLR bosses, is to reach over 2,500 young people each year and provide them with opportunities to transition into the workforce.
Laura Brown, director of the JLR Foundation, emphasizes the importance of this work, stating, "We know it's really important, given the statistics around young people who are not in education, employment or training at the moment." But here's where it gets controversial... Is corporate responsibility the only answer, or should the government be doing more to support youth employment initiatives?
Rebecca Bunger, head of youth work and partnerships at The Way, welcomes the government's renewed focus on NEETs and emphasizes the need for increased funding. "We've seen a lot less investment in young people over the last 15 or 20 years," she notes. "When businesses and organisations like Jaguar Land Rover Foundation put their hand in their pocket and demonstrate their support to our young people, that makes me really excited." And this is the part most people miss... the combination of business support and government funding could be the most effective way to tackle the complex issue of youth employment.
Ultimately, Tristan's story underscores the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Wolverhampton and beyond. The recognition that "finding a job is a skill" is a powerful reminder that we need to equip young people with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the modern workforce. What do you think? Is finding a job a skill that should be taught in schools? And what more can be done to support young people in their journey to employment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
