Rishi Sunak’s ‘Plan for jobs’ – let’s ensure best outcomes for young people

@WeAreBud we positively support the Chancellor and the Treasury for their rapid provision of funding to help those who have been the hardest hit by the economic impact of Covid 19, and the commitment to a range of schemes that will support young people in gaining employment

Of course, there are always challenges imposed by solutions that require such a quick turnaround, mostly in ensuring that every aspect has had full consideration. We are very much looking forward to receiving more detail and hope that training providers, AELP and AOC will be able to work together with the ESFA and government, to create meaningful and impactful programmes that will ensure young people benefit from the best possible outcomes for them. Through working together ambiguity and cross over will be minimised resulting in clarity for employers.

We are concerned that, at the moment, it will be tempting for employers to use the programme that provides the best financial result for them, rather than doing what’s right for the individual. For instance, the Kickstart scheme potentially provides more income for the employer but not necessarily the best outcome for the trainee who may achieve better outcomes through completing an apprenticeship.

We believe that the programmes delivered must be meaningful and ensure young people have the best possible start to their careers. We’re very much looking forward to receiving the detail behind the schemes, and hope that by involving a breadth of people from across the landscape the outcomes for young people will be at the forefront.