Dan Aldridge MP has welcomed a major new national scheme aimed at tackling youth unemployment.
The Youth Guarantee, launched by the Government, is expected to support almost one million young people with access to jobs, training, or education over the next three years, with £2.5 billion pledged to fund the scheme.
Dan Aldridge, Labour MP for Weston-super-Mare, said: "Too many young people have been left behind for far too long, with nearly a million now not in education, employment or training.
“That is why I welcome Labour’s Youth Guarantee – a major investment in the next generation that will help young people in Weston access jobs, apprenticeships, training and real opportunities for the future.
"Young people in our town are ambitious and talented.
"They deserve support, pathways into good careers, and the chance to build their future here in Weston."
The scheme includes employment support from day one for young Universal Credit claimants, followed by intensive, tailored help after 13 weeks, and guaranteed referrals to one of six pathways, including apprenticeships, jobs, and workplace training.
Employers will benefit from a £2,000 apprenticeship hiring grant for 16–24-year-olds, a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for hiring young people who have been on Universal Credit for six months, and access to paid six-month job placements for eligible young people unemployed long-term.
Other measures include up to 150,000 work experience placements, up to 145,000 employer-designed training opportunities, and the expansion of Youth Hubs across Great Britain to provide employment support, skills training, mental health support and careers advice.
Mr Aldridge added: "I know how important it is that young people can see a future for themselves locally.
"Whether that’s through apprenticeships, advanced manufacturing, digital skills, or creative industries, we need to open doors and create opportunity.
"This Government is investing in skills, backing young people, and making sure no one is written off because of where they grow up."
