January 2012
Highest youth unemployment levels since records began
The latest release of unemployment figures by
the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows the worst outlook
for 16 to 24-year-olds since 1992.
UK unemployment jumped to 2.68 million
in the three months to November, giving the UK a jobless rate of
8.4%.
Unemployment amongst 16 to 24-year-olds increased by 52,000 over
the quarter to 1.04 million, the highest since records began in
1992.
Martina Milburn, Chief Executive of The Prince’s Trust
said:
Britain’s jobless generation are losing hope
for the future. Unemployment can have a devastating effect – not
just on future job and wage prospects, but also damaging wellbeing
and mental health. Our research shows that unemployed young people
are feeling less confident about the future than they did this time
last year.
She continued, “The Government must work together with charities
and employers on courses that are proven to help young people into
jobs. Last year, more than three in four young people supported by
The Prince’s Trust moved into work, education or training.”
Read our recently released research about young people’s
overall wellbeing, The Youth Index
2012.