‘The Search is Soul-Destroying’: Young Jobseekers on the Struggle to Find Work
Young people are facing unprecedented challenges in the UK job market, as highlighted by new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). With 16.1% of individuals aged 16 to 24 unable to secure employment, the stark contrast to the national unemployment rate of 5.1% reveals a troubling trend, particularly for this age group. Here’s an in-depth look at their experiences and the factors at play.
The Impact of Economic Factors
– Traditional entry-level roles in sectors like retail and hospitality are drying up, as businesses grapple with rising operational costs. This often disproportionately affects young individuals seeking their first jobs.
– Graduate opportunities are becoming similarly competitive. Recent Cambridge University graduate Lucy Gabb, who is currently working at a café in London, laments, “Entry-level jobs are just so competitive and they’re asking for experience that is just impossible to get whilst you’re also studying.” Despite applying for over 50 roles, she secured only one interview. “All my friends are talking about is the job search. It can be really soul-destroying when you study for so long and don’t get anywhere,” she adds.
The Role of AI in Job Replacements
– Employers increasingly cite artificial intelligence (AI) as a reason for job reductions, since AI can handle many tasks associated with entry-level roles, such as data processing and report writing.
– Danni Hewson, head of financial analysis at AJ Bell, notes that for young jobseekers already struggling to enter the workforce, AI could lead to even fewer entry-level positions. Ironically, many jobseekers are utilizing AI in their applications to improve their chances of landing jobs.
Job Seekers’ Personal Struggles
– Alex Huke, a 21-year-old from County Durham, reflects on his experience after applying for 40 jobs over four months, only to finally receive an offer in the care industry. “It’s quite discouraging as you don’t hear back from a lot, and the applications often require a lot of effort,” he states, feeling the Job Centre serves more as a monitor than a helper.
– Terry Butler, a graduate from agricultural college, shares similar frustrations, stating, “I’ve been going to farms and asking them, and I just don’t get answers back.” He highlights that employers prioritize experience over educational achievements, leaving many young jobseekers overlooked.
Support Initiatives and Gaps
– To combat youth unemployment, the government has introduced a Youth Guarantee Scheme, aimed at creating thousands of apprenticeships and ensuring paid work for individuals aged 18 to 21 who have been out of education, employment, or training (NEET) for 18 months.
– Olivia Diss, a university graduate, advocates for similar support measures for those holding degrees. Currently living with her parents and relying on Universal Credit, she has faced numerous rejections despite applying for various roles, including retail. “I feel quite disheartened. I spent four years working hard towards a degree that I thought was very valuable,” she explains. Olivia seeks a plan to ensure graduates can effectively utilize their degrees in the job market.
Conclusion
The search for work can be deeply disheartening for young jobseekers in the UK, who find themselves navigating a challenging landscape marked by economic pressures and an evolving job market influenced by technology. As they continue to face barriers to employment, a collective effort—through government schemes and community support—is essential to foster pathways that lead to fulfilling careers for the younger generation.