Scheme to target unemployed teenagers

Commenting on the launch of the Government’s new £126 million scheme which will allow firms and charities to bid for a payment-by-results scheme to try to get teenagers into work or training, Christine Blower, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, the largest teachers’ union, said:

“Tackling the problem of youth unemployment is essential but will not be solved by simply forcing young people into unpaid work placements. Schools, local authorities and social services all need to be fully resourced to ensure that children and young people from difficult backgrounds have the support they need to counteract the social disadvantages they face from an early age.

“A recent report by the Institute of Education showed that a quarter of children have to cope with multiple problems at home, including drug and alcohol dependency of carers or parents. The Government needs to direct resources at these problems, not continue its programme of cutting services that are vital to the development of those most in need.”