The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a major policy announcement in an effort to tackle Britain's youth unemployment crisis and provide a "major boost" to the economy.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has confirmed plans for 80 additional youth hubs nationwide as part of efforts to address rising unemployment among young people.
The announcement came as the minister opened Scotland's inaugural youth guarantee jobs fair in Glasgow, describing the initiative as a "major boost" for youngsters across Britain.
This latest programme forms part of a £2.5billion government investment aimed at returning close to one million young people who are currently neither working nor in education back into employment.
DWP is rolling out youth hubs
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This figure has increased more than fourfold since 2021, according to Government data. The investment, combined with modifications to the growth and skills levy prioritising apprentices, is projected to generate 200,000 jobs and apprenticeship positions.
The youth hubs will unite jobcentres, local authorities, employers, and training providers to assist individuals aged 16 to 24.
Each hub must adhere to minimum standards set by the Government, ensuring participants can access on-site jobcentre assistance alongside mental health and housing support services.
Skills development and training programmes will be available, together with careers advice and guidance. Crucially, the hubs will establish direct links to employers offering current vacancies and apprenticeship opportunities.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden | GB NewsLATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Unemployment in the UK has hit 5.2 per cent | CommonsThe Labour Government intends to roll out these facilities across Scotland, England, and Wales to prevent young people under 24 from drifting into long-term worklessness.
At Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall, approximately 2,400 jobseekers had the opportunity to meet major employers including HSBC, Barclays, Police Scotland and the NHS.
Speaking to the Press Association during his visit, Mr McFadden said: "This is all about getting employment opportunities for young people. We know that young people are full of energy and talent, but too many of them have been out of work in recent years."
When questioned about welfare reform and opposition from within Labour ranks, the minister framed the youth guarantee itself as meaningful change.
Youth unemployment among 16 to 24-year-olds has risen to 16.1 per cent | GETTYHe said: "We're doing welfare reform all the time. The youth guarantee is welfare reform because by getting young people into work, that's the best form of welfare reform that we can have."
The minister noted that each young person returning to employment would earn an additional £1 million over their lifetime, with equivalent savings for the Government.
Following the jobs fair, Mr McFadden travelled to Hampden Park, Scotland's national football stadium, to reveal a partnership with the SPFL Trust for delivering youth hubs throughout Scotland.
Nicky Reid, chief executive of the SPFL Trust, said: "We're extremely proud to have been chosen to deliver these vital youth hubs in partnership with the DWP across the country."
She highlighted that football clubs and their community trusts represent places where many young people feel a strong connection, making them ideally suited for the programme.