I know that the vast majority of young people want to work. They want to get their foot on the career ladder, and they want to get on in life. Often the biggest stumbling block to this is a lack of experience.
We all know the problem – you can't get a job without experience, but you can't get experience without a job. And the result? A huge pool of talent, enthusiasm and potential goes to waste. If we are to achieve our goal of being an aspiration nation then young people need to be given a chance. If Britain and its businesses are to compete in the global race then we need to tap into that pool of talent.
The answer? Give young people the opportunity to showcase their talents and show potential employers what they are capable of. And this is just what is happening in businesses across Devon and Cornwall, through our hugely expanded work experience scheme. Already, 3,760 people in the Westcountry have volunteered to take up the opportunity of a work experience placement, and I am grateful to all the employers, big and small, that have offered them the chance to get their foot in the door and gain some vital work skills that will help them get on in life.
It's a real tribute to those businesses and charities that 1,350 places have been taken up in Cornwall alone – a total topped only by Birmingham and Glasgow across the whole of Great Britain. With a dedicated work experience co-ordinator in every Jobcentre in the region, it's no wonder it's leading the way – and it's great to see other parts of the Westcountry close behind, with more than 800 jobseekers having benefited in Plymouth.
The most important thing is we know it works. We commissioned research which found that, for every 100 people who take part in our work experience placements, more than one third – 35 – were in work five months later. That is eight more than if they had not participated. With a clear benefit like that, it amazes me that a small number of people continue to attack this scheme, apparently determined to stand in the way of jobseekers finding a job. The reality is that people are happy to take part because they know strengthening their CV will boost their chances of moving off benefits and getting into work – and they continue to receive their benefits while on their placement.
Work experience can boost a young person's confidence, employability and prospects. But offering a placement can be a great opportunity for the employer as well, giving them a chance to see a potential recruit in action. That's why work experience has the backing of some of Britain's leading employers, as well as hundreds of small and medium-sized firms across the Westcountry. And through our Youth Contract, which is all about helping more young people into work, we're now able to offer 100,000 places every year.
Despite what the cynics predicted, we've actually seen an impressive increase in the number of jobs since 2010, and unemployment has also come down. In Devon and Cornwall, that means 2,000 fewer people on Jobseeker's Allowance compared to the same time last year, while across the South West an extra 24,000 people are in work.
But we know there are still big challenges ahead, as we saw from the small increase in the number of jobseekers in Devon last month. Youth unemployment is a particular priority, and that's where work experience can really help. So to those employers who aren't yet involved in the scheme, why not follow the example others are setting and get in touch with your local Jobcentre to help give many more young people a chance.
By helping them to experience the world of work, you would be hugely increasing their chances of moving into a job. And what's more, it can be good for your business too, as young people bring with them new ideas and enthusiasm which can help your business to expand and grow.
Work experience is a winner for everyone.