UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Sunday 7 April 2013

Young workers hardest hit by austerity

The economic and financial crisis since 2008 has hit young workers particularly hard. Almost 1m under 25's were unemployed in the UK at the end of last year and across the EU youth joblessness is double the general rate of unemployment.

Dr Melanie Simms Associate Professor at the University of Warwick examines the challenges facing young workers in the current labour market which 'are profound and stem from the interactions of a range of policy areas including social security, education, and employment. There are no simple answers to ‘solving’ the problems facing society as we move into a period where early experiences of work are far more likely than previously to be marked by unemployment and low quality work.' Simms identifies options available to employers, unions and policy makers to improve opportunities for young workers:
http://www.unions21.org.uk/download/321