Chamber urges support for firms to expand work experience

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has welcomed the Prime Minister’s call for businesses to offer more work placements to young people - but says firms will need targeted support if they are to expand opportunities at scale.

Andy Burnham urged employers to follow the lead of Sainsbury's, which this week announced 10,000 new work experience placements for young people, as part of a drive to tackle the growing number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) - a figure that has now passed one million nationally.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce backed the initiative but said the Government must first create the right conditions for businesses to offer high-quality placements.

The Chamber added the forthcoming Autumn Budget is an opportunity for Government to introduce measures that support recruitment and investment.

Head of policy Emily Stubbs (pictured) said: “It is encouraging to see the Prime Minister recognising and celebrating businesses that are opening their doors to young people and helping bridge the gap between education and employment.

“Meaningful work experience is one of the most effective ways to help young people build confidence, develop workplace skills and gain the practical experience employers value.

“Businesses across Greater Birmingham want to play their part and help the next generation access rewarding careers.

“However, many firms, particularly SMEs, are operating under significant cost and capacity pressures. If we want to expand high-quality work experience opportunities at scale, employers need the right conditions and support to make that possible.

“Reducing the pressures facing business would free up resource to invest in young talent, strengthen the pipeline between education and employment, and help build the skilled workforce our economy needs for the future.

“That is why the forthcoming Autumn Budget must include targeted measures to support recruitment and investment.

“An employer National Insurance contribution cut for under-25s would help firms create more opportunities for young people entering the workforce, while support on energy costs and business rates would give businesses the confidence to invest, grow and create the jobs that will drive long-term prosperity.”

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