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Social Justice Annual Report Scotland 2000
Milestone 7
Halving the proportion of 16-19 year olds who are not in education, training
and employment
Why it's important:
- Non-participation at this crucial age is costly for the individual and
for society as a whole. There are strong links between unemployment, benefit
dependency, offending and drug misuse.
- Being out of education, employment or training for more than 6 months
between the ages of
16-19 is the most powerful predictor of unemployment at age 21.
Chart 7: Percentage of 16-19 year olds not in education, training or employment
Source: Labour Force Survey, Office for National Statistics.
Trends:
- In 1993, 15% of 16-19 year olds (just over 33,000 people) were not in
education, training or employment. This figure has stayed fairly stable
from year to year, with the figure for 2000 being 14%.
Action:
- The New Deal for 18-24 year olds provides focused help into work or training
and youth unemployment (over 6 months) is down 70% since Spring 1997. The
New Deal has provided a route into jobs for over 28,000 young Scots since
January 1998.
- We are widening access to further and higher education, focusing on students
from under-represented and disadvantaged groups. We have abolished tuition
fees and are funding an additional 42,000 student places.
- Young people should feel encouraged to participate more fully in their
education and their choices after school. Earlier interventions are being
put in place through the development of school initiatives such as Personal
Learning Plans and Progress Files to help schools and young people to focus
on their strengths and potential.
- We are increasing access to out of school learning activities and study
support to support the poorest performing teenagers.
New action beyond the data period:
- Many young people who are not in education, training or employment have
to overcome substantial barriers. It takes time to make a significant impact.
The Beattie Committee was set up to examine the difficulties some young
people face making the transition from school. A National Action Group will
take forward the recommendations, backed by £22.6 million. This includes
£9 million to establish key worker support for vulnerable young people.
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