A government-backed initiative aimed at reducing youth unemployment through a major apprenticeship program is falling far short of expectations, with enrollment figures revealing a critical slow start. The scheme, designed to create 30,000 new opportunities by the end of the current parliamentary term, has seen just 160 young people signed up in its first eight months, raising concerns over its effectiveness. A report by the Fabian Society underscores the risk of the "skills revolution" failing to meet its goals, leaving policymakers scrambling to address the shortfall. Critics warn that without urgent action, the program could struggle to deliver on its promise of transforming employment prospects for young workers.
Exclusive: Government warned ‘skills revolution’ at risk amid slow start to project with target of 30,000 starts by end of parliamentLabour has been warned its “skills revolution” to tackle youth unemployment risks failure, after its flagship apprenticeship scheme enrolled only 160 young people in its first eight months.The shortfall, highlighted in a report by the Fabian Society, leaves the government well off track of achieving its ambition of 30,000 “foundation apprenticeship” starts by the end of this parliament. Continue reading...
