Research identifies barriers to employing young people

A major piece of research carried out by Shropshire Council has identified the key barriers to employing skilled young people faced by businesses, and the perceptions of young people about living and working in a rural area such as Shropshire.

The research involved hundreds of local businesses, students and recent graduates from across the UK, and 10% of 18 year olds in Shropshire.

The research findings will be used to inform the development of a range of important Shropshire-wide projects aimed at retaining skilled young people in Shropshire, and helping Shropshire businesses to help Shropshire’s young people into employment.

The findings have now been published, titled Growing Talent In Rural Areas, and are available on the Shropshire Council website by clicking here.

Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy and waste, said:

“This valuable piece of research demonstrates that Shropshire is an attractive place to live and work, and will enable the development of a range of important projects to help drive forward business growth and prosperity in Shropshire.”

Councillor Aggie Caesar-Homden, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said:

“With more than 20% of 18-24 year olds nationwide unemployed, this research into the specific barriers to employing young people in Shropshire comes at a crucial time, and will inform important projects being developed to help our young people into employment.

“I have personally found the report extremely interesting to read. It has provided us with in-depth information which will help us to attract skilled workers and encourage our young people to stay in Shropshire.”