A report examining the impact of the recession on young people in the UK, has found that the majority of 18-24 year olds in Wales are highly motivated with a strong work ethic.
They are keen to work and have a flexible attitude to the type of jobs they are willing to do.
The report, ‘False starts: restoring hope, dignity and opportunity to young people’, published by welfare to work provider Reed in Partnership, also identified a reluctance on the part of young people to consider unpaid activities that will help them find employment.
In a UK survey of more than 1,200 unemployed young people, only 45 per cent said they would take part in unpaid training, 44 per cent in unpaid work, 39 per cent unpaid voluntary work and just 36 per cent would undertake an unpaid internship.
Young people in Wales were found to be most willing to undertake a paid internship at 87 per cent, against a national average of 75 per cent. In addition, young Welsh job seekers are also most likely (87 per cent) to take on an apprenticeship. This is good news for Wales as it shows that young people are flexible and adaptable in their approach to looking for work.
The report outlines a strong need to challenge this perception and ensure that young people are aware of the benefits of taking part in unpaid work and training as means of developing their skills and future prospects.
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