Springboard calls for early action on youth unemployment

Hospitality charity Springboard is calling for early intervention in young people’s job mobility, after the latest Young People and Interim Report revealed high levels of disengagement and a record number of young adults not in education, employment or training. 

According to data from the report, there are growing levels of inequality and disengagement among school leavers and young adults. 

Springboard, which provides training and employability programmes for the leisure and tourism sector, stated that the figures show a systemic issue rather than a lack of ambition among young people.  

More than half of the participants on the charity’s employment programmes are aged between 18 and 24. The majority of these individuals live in areas of high deprivation or face barriers to employment, including mental health challenges, lack of experience and unstable home lives.

The charity supported more than 5,000 people into employment or education last year through targeted training and early careers engagement in schools. Internal tracking shows 90% of participants progressed into positive destinations, while 86% remained employed after 12 months.

In light of the report findings, industry leaders are now calling for earlier intervention, increased employer engagement and practical support to help young people secure jobs. 

Springboard aims to deliver one million hospitality skills by 2030 in partnership with employers, educators and the government.

Chris Gamm, chief executive of Springboard, said: “The outcome of the latest Young People and Interim Report is deeply concerning. The findings, which show a record number of young people are not in education, employment or training, reflect a wider issue of disengagement and inequality in opportunity, not a lack of ambition.

“For us, the solution is clear: earlier intervention, stronger employer engagement and practical support that helps young people build confidence, gain experience and take their first step into work. The role Springboard plays in supporting young people into employment is increasingly vital.”