Youth 'need not become statistics'

Jan 31 2012

A teenager should not come through the school system simply to end up as an "unemployment statistic", First Minister Alex Salmond has said.

Unveiling a youth employment strategy, Mr Salmond said the Scottish Government is committed to doing everything in its power to reduce youth joblessness.

The plan is to encourage collaboration between the Scottish Government, the Parliament and key economic stakeholders to reduce youth unemployment.

Mr Salmond said: "Our key commitment is to those young people who yearn to be productive. No young person should go through school only to become an unemployment statistic at the age of 16. We will not allow that in Scotland and more must and will be done.

"The cause of youth opportunities required a clear and unequivocal champion in government, which is why in December last year I appointed Angela Constance to the position of Minister for Youth Employment. This was the first appointment of its kind in the UK."

Ms Constance said the Scottish Government will support more young people through the introduction of the Opportunities for All programme.

She added: "This will take a strong existing package of education and training support and ensure that every 16-19 year old not already in work, education or training will have access to a suitable place in learning or training.

"We recognise that our response to youth unemployment must go beyond education and training. Throughout my adult life I have maintained the view that our young people's life chances are best served by a Parliament with full job creating powers."

She added: "There is no monopoly of wisdom or concern on this issue. The Scottish Government will work hand in hand with any organisation, company or individual who shares our commitment to support Scotland's young people.

"By working together and taking a strategic all-Scotland approach I believe we can successfully tackle this issue and help our young people take the next steps on their own journeys."