Action plan as number of young people claiming jobless-related benefits in Peterborough soars
The number of young people claiming jobless-related benefits in Peterborough has soared by nine per cent.
Data released by the Department of Work and Pensions shows that the number of people aged 18 to 24 claiming Universal Credit in Peterborough went up to 1,450 last month – up nine per cent in June last year.
It is the only group of Universal Credit claimants in Peterborough to have undergone a hike over the year.
It has prompted a growing focus by Jobcentre staff as they put in place a number of actions to encourage more youngsters into work.
These include special jobs fairs at the Peterborough Youth Hub at the Peterborough United ground in London Road, closer links with city schools and greater use of work experience for youngsters.
Lynne Clarke, Partnership Manager for Peterborough Jobcentre, said: “As part of ongoing efforts to support young people into employment, a recent jobs fair was held recently at the Peterborough Youth Hub.
"The event brought together disability employment advisers, recruitment consultants and work experience consultants, providing young people with access to employment, training and development opportunities and helping them take their next steps towards work.
She said: “We had a good turn out at the event and many of the employers told us they’d had some very good conversations with the young people.
"It was very positive feedback.
She added: “"We are planning to host another jobs fair at the Youth Hub in September and we are with Peterborough College at its new The Bridge centre in Bridge Street.
"Peterborough Jobcentre is also working closely with local schools through its School Advisers programme.
"The initiative aims to engage young people before they disengage from education or require benefit support, helping them move into positive destinations and reducing the risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).”
She said the nine per cent increase in claimants was high and some might be attributable to youngsters finishing school or university.
She added: “We are working with schools to engage with youngsters at an earlier age and to promote the benefits of voluntary work or work experience.”