The economic slowdown has had a major impact on young people with reduced opportunities and increased competition for jobs driving youth unemployment rates up to 4 times the overall Edinburgh unemployment average. This issue cannot be tackled by any one agency or organisation alone and it is for this reason that the Council has instigated cross-partner action – The Edinburgh Guarantee.
Working with the public, private and voluntary sectors the Council seeks to increase the number of jobs, education or training opportunities being made available to young people, in tandem with work to improve the level of support available to help them move into a positive destination.
A number of exciting developments are supporting this objective.
Edinburgh Guarantee Creating Jobs: John Lewis
John Lewis Partnership has become the first large retailer to offer young people paid placement opportunities though the Edinburgh Guarantee. Four young people started in sales roles this week which will last for at least six months. At the same time four other young people joined the Edinburgh store through John Lewis’ national commitment to recruit modern apprentices.
Edinburgh Guarantee Supporting Pupils: Jet Programme
400 fourth year school students from all parts of the city had their first day of work experience on Friday 7th September. They will spend every Friday from now till April on placement with a business, doing real work, and gaining invaluable experience, while still at school. Now in its sixth year of operation th JET programme has a proven track record of success in preparing young people for the world of work. Critical to its success has been the support of local employers, and SME’s in particular, with involvment across the city from single proprietor hairdressers and garages to internationally renowned Michelin star restaurateurs. For more information contact Susan Milne on 0131 529 69000 or email susan.milne@edinburgh.gov.uk
Edinburgh Guarantee Informing Teachers: BrightStart
Deloitte is hosting an evening event on 24th September to provide head teachers, guidance teachers and career advisors with information on their BrightStart scheme. The scheme is designed for high calibre students who expect to be successful in their Highers (or equivalent). Students will study for the CA professional qualification with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland and will receive fully supported study leave and payment of all study fees, as well as a competetive salary. While this programme is an alternative to university, it can be just as demanding and rewarding. For more information and specifics about the event please contact Debbie Wilson djwilson@deloitte.co.uk or visit www.deloitte.co.uk/schoolleavers
Find out more about the Edinburgh Guarantee on the Edinburgh Council website.
