Chloe Smith MP publishes interim results from the Young People’s Survey, wants to hear from more young people in the City

MP for Norwich North, Chloe Smith, today published interim results from the survey she has commissioned of Norwich’s young people, to better understand the challenges they face and their aspirations for their careers.

The survey was launched in February and since then young people from across the City have been responding, providing a valuable insight into their perceptions of the world of work.

Around 100 replies have been received so far, including engagement from local high schools such as Open Academy, Heartsease, who confirm that many students have completed the survey.

Chloe asks more young people to complete it.

The survey forms part of Chloe’s campaign for improved training opportunities for young people to help them in the transition from education to employment and to tackle youth unemployment in the City.

Survey results - some key points so far:

• Many respondents currently studying were NOT confident of getting a job upon qualifying


• The largest group of respondents stated their biggest barrier to getting a job was a lack of work experience


• The majority of respondents did NOT know how to get involved in a work experience scheme or apprenticeship... BUT


• The clear majority of respondents thought that participating in work experience or an apprentice WOULD help their chances of getting a job

 

Speaking after the special young people's advice surgery she piloted earlier this month, Chloe commented:

“What we are seeing is clear. Young people in Norfolk and Norwich want to work, but believe their chances of finding a job are hindered by a lack of experience or relevant skills. Crucially, the clear majority believe that a training or apprenticeship programme will help them to find work.

“I am working with the Jobcentre Plus, schools and colleges in the City to ensure that these young people are equipped with the knowledge of how to find the right training opportunity for them.

“I am also continuing to work with local businesses to see that they are aware of the benefits of hiring an apprentice, offering work experience or employing a young person.”

“I urge any young people who have not yet completed the survey to do so. The more voices we hear, the better we can understand how to help.” 

Dick Palmer, Principal City College Norwich commented:

“We know that both our students at City College Norwich, and the employers we already work with, understand and value work experience placements. This survey gives further validation that young people really care about getting a job and want to do everything they can to help themselves do just that. We need, now, to get a bigger virtuous circle in place – benefitting employers and students through creating high value placements across all of our economic sectors in Norfolk”