Summary:

In this episode of Beyond the Status Quo, Tamara and Kathryn speak with Laura-Jayne. Rawlings MBE, CEO of Youth Employment UK, about the growing disconnect between education, employment and the realities facing young people today. Drawing on her own experience of poverty and an unconventional route into work, Laura-Jane challenges the assumption that current systems are serving young people well. The conversation explores findings from Youth Employment UK’s Youth Voice Census, highlighting rising anxiety, inequality, lack of work experience opportunities and a growing sense of futility among young people. Laura-Jane argues that the social contract has broken down, with hard work no longer guaranteeing opportunity. She calls for greater youth voice, system-wide change, shared leadership responsibility and a renewed focus on purpose, agency and joy.

Take Aways:

· Young people want to work but face growing barriers to opportunity.

· The “social contract” feels broken for many young people.

· Youth voice must shape policy, education and employment systems.

· Trusted adults can empower agency rather than direct decisions.

· Apprenticeships offer lessons in personalised learning and support.

· Leadership is everyone’s responsibility, not just those with titles.

· System change requires shared purpose across organisations.

· Joy, belonging and hope are essential for meaningful learning and work.

Links:

Youth Voice Census - Youth Employment UK

About Youth Employment UK | Youth Employment UK

Young people and work: interim report - GOV.UK

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