Wandsworth borough is facing a problem with youth unemployment.
Recent data shows that a significant increase in economically inactive young people in the local borough. In March 2024 it was estimated that around 22,000 individuals ages between 16 and 64 were classed as economically inactive, in other words they are neither employed nor actively seeking work.
This accounts for 9.4% of the working-age population, up from 8.8% the previous year. The rise in unemployment within the youth is a serious cause for concern. This shows that many are not engaging with workforces or may lack the skills and support to find employment. Experts have stated that without interventions the youth are at risk of long-term unemployment and social exclusion. This also may also increase the risk of crime rate.
The local leaders of the community have been pushing for an increased investment in youth employment programmes, apprenticeships and skills development workshops to help not only address the situation but also to help take step to better the borough. Providing the youth with tools, networks and opportunities they need to better themselves and the borough.
Sources to contact:
1) Wandsworth Information Advice& Support Services:
Rina Patel – Manager
WIASS are an organisation who help develop and implement local employment and skills strategies. advice and
support to children and young people (aged 0 to 25) with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and their parents.
There contact information is listed on the website.
Question to ask Rina;
What challenges are young people in Wandsworth facing when entering the job market?
How can community organizations and charities support young individuals in overcoming these challenges?
2)Local Mayor and Youth MayorThe Mayor of Wandsworth for 2024/25 is Counceller Sana Jafri –
contact – mayors.office@wandsworth.gov.uk
Youth Mayor is Millie Quinn Also Youth Deputy Mayor Favour Ofini.
contact – youth.mayor@wandsworth.gov.uk.
Role: Provides support and being a voice for those all over Wandsworth. From school to housing and education also help young people seeking employment and career development.
What challenges are young people in Wandsworth facing when entering the job market?
How can community organizations and charities support young individuals in overcoming these challenges?
3) Hopper Coffee Wandsworth/ Local business owners
Ask them for insight into the hiring practices and challenges faced by local businesses in employing young people.
Contact – Identify a local business owner through community or walk into a shop.
Question to ask:
What skills do you look for when hiring young people in Wandsworth?
How can local businesses contribute to reducing youth unemployment in the area?
Next step would be to reach out and contact identifies sources to gather perspective and insights on the employment issue in Wandsworth. Then to conduct interviews and request written statements. Then analyse the data and review the employment statistics and reports to provide an overview of the situation.
By Mansa Ahmed.