Young people fear for their job prospects following Brexit

The research conducted on behalf of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), reveals that the result of the EU Referendum has made many young people less certain about their future prospects. Nearly a third of 15-19 year olds (31.6%) and 47% of 19 year olds are now more worried about their work prospects than they were prior to the vote, with 36% of 15-19 year olds and nearly 46% of 19 year olds believing more information needs to be provided to young people on how the Brexit vote may affect them.

The research also reinforced the underlying disappointment amongst young people about the outcome of the vote.  More than 1 in 5 of 15-19 year olds (and more than 1 in 3 of 19 year olds) believe their parents’ and grandparents’ generation voted selfishly and, as a result, have put their education and career prospects at risk.

20% of young people said they worry about growing student debt, and only 6% say they are likely to choose an apprenticeship as an alternative.  The IMI is calling on the new Minister for Apprenticeships to take urgent action to inform young people of their career options.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI said

"The stunning performance of team GB in this year’s Olympics shows us clearly what can be achieved with significant investment in our young people. While the Government is preparing the ground for investment in apprenticeships with the training levy our research shows that young people are lacking the information and inspiration they need to look seriously at vocational training to build a successful career. It’s time for government to start a careers coaching programme to help our young people go for gold."

“The result of the EU referendum was a shock to many, and there has still been little or no solid information provided regarding the effects it will have on education, employment and industry across the UK. Young people currently looking to make decisions on their future education and training options are feeling the turmoil and insecurity very deeply, and more needs to be done to help them make informed choices.

“Adding to the uncertainty are the grumblings from businesses about the Apprenticeship levy, which could only serve to further convince young people that university is their most secure option.  There is, therefore, a very real risk that young people will choose to go to university, despite the high cost and risk of huge student debts, rather than taking on what they may now see as the more risky option of an apprenticeship.

“Our research revealed that many young people believe their parents’ and grandparents’ generation voted selfishly in the referendum (23.6% for 15-19 olds, rising to 38% for 19 year olds), and as a result have put their education and career prospects at risk (24% for 15-19 year olds rising to 42% for 19 year olds). More information and support is desperately needed for these understandably concerned young people, they need expert help to examine their options.  Robert Halfon MP, the Minister now responsible for Apprenticeships and careers advice urgently needs to start doing his job and respond to the call for help from the Brexit Generation.”

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