Young people claiming benefits in Edinburgh has tripled during the pandemic

An Edinburgh-based charity is highlighting the importance of working together to help young people hit by the economic crisis.

COVID-19 and the associated economic uncertainty are creating a perfect storm for young people, particularly those working in ‘shut-down’ sectors. New statistics from the Centre for Cities show that 3,285 young people in Edinburgh (5.1%) claimed benefits in August.  This number has more than tripled since the beginning of the pandemic.  The Youth Employment Group predicts this number is likely to rise further still after October.

The Youth Employment Group (YEG) brings together over 150 key leaders and experts in the youth employment sector to help drive the UK’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Local member, Venture Trust, is also a member of a Scottish Youth Employment Group which aims to work with Scottish government to ensure that young people are not left behind in recovery.

They recognise the importance of working together to retain existing opportunities whilst building support and capacity for the future. Among other recommendations, they are encouraging local employers and youth services to get involved in schemes such as the Young Person’s Guarantee and Kickstart aimed at ensuring that young people in Edinburgh are not missing out – in particular young people who need support the most.

In a statement, Amelia Morgan from the Venture Trust said, “The new figures show the scale of the challenge facing young people in Edinburgh. Younger generations are being hardest hit by economic instability and they are 2.5 times more likely to work in the ‘shut down’ sectors which are being further disrupted by local lockdowns and more stringent social distancing measures.

“We know it’s hard right now. Employers, educators, trainers, youth workers, advisers, charities and decision makers all have a vital role to play.  Only with a collective and concerted effort, can we help save a generation from the long-term scarring effects of youth unemployment.”

Recently, the YEG released a paper that contains recommendations for further action to protect jobs and opportunities for young people, including:

  • Targeting support at young people who face disadvantage or discrimination in the labour market to ensure they don’t fall through the net and become long term unemployed.
  • Coordinating government schemes so young people and employers can easily identify and access the most appropriate support to suit their needs.
  • Ensuring that all young people can access their entitlement to high-quality personalised guidance and advice