Youth Unemployment Boosts Significance of School-to-Work Transition

Soaring youth unemployment figures have heightened the importance of the
transition from school to work, according to a leading young people's
development organisation.

Yesterday's Household Labour Force Survey showed unemployment, for those in
the 15-24 year old age group, reaching 18.4 percent in the December 2009 quarter, with employment dropping by 34,000 compared to a year earlier.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Social Development figures show the 18-24 age group accounting for 34 percent of those requiring unemployment benefit.

"For good reason, employment issues loom large in the lives of young New Zealanders and concerned parents at present. Now, more than ever, we need to get the transition from school to work right, for as many of our young people as possible," says Youthline's CEO, Stephen Bell.

"If young people have no help to turn to at this crucial time in their lives, they may well experience long term difficulties in building independent, satisfying lives for themselves, difficulties that may continue even when employment opportunities become more plentiful," he says.

Mr Bell points out that Youthline already provides a range of services that can help young people make the best of the opportunities available to them, as well as providing them with support, understanding and encouragement.

"We focus both on issues of long term significance, such as planning a career and investigating education and training options, and on more immediate matters such as writing a CV and gaining job interview skills. In addition, we can help with practical matters such as acquiring a driving licence or finding accommodation, so that young people can take advantage of employment opportunities.

"But, with jobs in short supply, it's also important to help our youth recognise that there are useful, enjoyable and challenging options for them, even when they can't immediately find paid employment.

"An important part of our role is to provide a very wide range of volunteering opportunities, which help young people gain confidence and involve themselves with the community, learning skills that will stand them in good stead in the years ahead," he says.

"Whilst we all hope for a rapid return to buoyant labour market conditions,
there is much we can do in the meantime to prevent unemployment blighting the lives of young New Zealanders. In this respect, we believe Youthline is setting a pretty good example," Stephen Bell adds.

ENDS

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