We are overlooked by employers, say Pershore students

Students fear young people are being overlooked by employers and say the job market is leaving them feeling anxious.

The Worcestershire students spoke out after a report last month revealed more than a million young people, aged 16 to 24, are not in education, employment or training (Neet), with author Alan Milburn warning things are only "getting worse".

The BBC visited Pershore College, where students said they were not surprised by former health secretary Milburn's findings.

Jensen Banner said it has left a feeling "that we're not important". In response to the report skills minister Jacqui Smith said she was determined to tackle "a break of the bond between generations".

Horticulture student Banner, 24, and from Kidderminster, said :"I do slightly understand the lack of motivation of some young people - the feeling that we're not important, and the feeling that we're looked down upon for being young.

"Sometimes I feel that way. Even though we have our parents, sometimes it's not enough - we need more role models which can help lead the younger generations, other than musicians.

"We need more positive leaders, I guess. The fact so many people are [Neets] is a real shame."

Corey Lousvet-Winter, 18, said: "It's so hard to get a job, trust me.

"It's because so many people are applying for things - I've looked at over 100 jobs and not been able to get a single one.

"That includes retail work with places like Tesco and Lidl, horticulture jobs, garden landscaping jobs, all sorts.

"It's extremely hard because [employers] `have often got a lot of people who want a job.

"It's really difficult and it stresses young people out, I've got friends who say the same."

Baroness Smith said Milburn had made "some really important points" in his report.

"No government has done enough to tackle this issue so far, but we're determined to make a difference," she said.

"Whether it's our £2.5bn investment in a 'youth guarantee' for more apprenticeships, or jobs for young people who've been out of work, or more mental health support in schools - there's a lot of work we're already doing.

"But we were keen to be challenged and to have Alan's recommendations which will be coming in the autumn, to allow us to build on it further."

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